NFL to hold private workout for Kaep
Colin Kaepernick’s attempt at an NFL comeback isn’t dead yet.
The former 49ers quarterback, who hasn’t played since 2016 amid controversy for kneeling during the national anthem, will take part in an NFL-arranged private workout and interview session Saturday, according to a memo obtained by ESPN.
“Earlier this year, we [the NFL] discussed some possible steps with his representatives and they recently emphasized his level of preparation and that he is ready to work out for clubs and be interviewed by them,” the memo said. “We have therefore arranged this opportunity for him to work out, and for all clubs to have the opportunity to evaluate his current readiness and level of interest in resuming his NFL career.”
Kaepernick, who turned 32 on Nov. 3, has not played in the NFL since opting out of his contract with the 49ers after the 2016 season. He became a lightning rod that season when he chose to kneel during the national anthem in protest of police brutality and racial injustice.
That the NFL arranged the workout is intriguing as Kaepernick had previously alleged his form of protest led to him being blackballed by the league. Kaepernick filed a grievance against the NFL that was settled for an undisclosed amount out of court in February. Former teammate Eric Reid, who was part of the lawsuit, got another chance and is with the Panthers.
In recent months, Kaepernick has shown an itch to get back on the field, with his representatives reaching out to teams looking for a quarterback.
It appears Kaepernick had no prior knowledge of this workout. He tweeted late Tuesday afternoon: “I’m just getting word from my representatives that the NFL league office reached out to them about a workout in Atlanta on Saturday. I’ve been in shape and ready for this for 3 years, can’t wait to see the head coaches and GMs on Saturday.”
Several teams have considered bringing him on, including Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti, who later balked over the fan backlash Kaepernick’s presence potentially would bring.