Kaepernick Wants To Leave 49ers For Jets, Report Says
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Colin Kaepernick reportedly wants to fly with the Jets next season.
The New York Daily News reported the quarterback wants to leave the San Francisco 49ers and that the New York Jets are his preferred destination. The problem, though, is that Kaepernick still has five years remaining in the $114 million extension that he signed in 2014. The Jets would have to trade for him or wait for him to get cut.
Kaepernick's base salary of $11.9 million becomes guaranteed on April 1, according to the Daily News. If the 49ers do cut the dual-threat quarterback, the organization would save $8.5 million.
New 49ers head coach Chip Kelly did not fully support Kaepernick during a press conference last month. However, 49ers CEO Jed York said Kaepernick would get a "fresh start" with the team.
"I've always had a very, very high opinion of Kap," York said. "Kap's a great kid, he's done a lot of great things for us."
It was a trying season for Kaepernick in 2015. He was benched for backup Blaine Gabbert after a 2-6 start. Two weeks later, Kaepernick was placed on injured reserve that ended his season.
On the Jets end, they have said they would like to bring Ryan Fitzpatrick back to continue to lead the team. Fitzpatrick helped guide the Jets to a 10-6 record, throwing for over 3,900 yards and 31 touchdowns, his best season statistically in his career. For his part, Fitzpatrick has said he wants to be back with the Jets.
Kaepernick is 31-22 over five seasons, and did lead the 49ers to a Super Bowl appearance.