Kaepernick criticizes reports about altercation
Colin Kaepernick said he has no issue with Aldon Smith, but he does have a problem with those who reported he and the former 49ers’ outside linebacker were involved in a fight before Smith’s arrest last week.
On Wednesday, the 49ers’ quarterback blasted Internet reports of an altercation, one of which claimed Smith hit a Mercedes owned by Kaepernick with his car. Kaepernick noted he has an endorsement deal with Jaguar and also that initial reports claimed a fight occurred during practice Thursday, which was a day off for the players.
“Along those lines, I feel like anyone (who) believes that and goes about reporting that just doesn’t have the best integrity in my mind,” Kaepernick said. “I mean, to try to prey on athletes’ livelihoods while one is going through a tough time is embarrassing to me. For people (who) do report that, and put that out there, and jumped on that bandwagon just to get Internet clicks and get attention to their website or reports, it really is embarrassing that people do that.”
Kaepernick said he is “good friends” with Smith, who attended Kaepernick’s benefit golf tournament in June. Smith was released after he was arrested last Thursday on suspicion of hit-and-run, DUI and vandalism.
“It’s really tragic,” Kaepernick said. “I wish him the best. I hope he’s doing well. I hope everything turns out all right for him and he can get back on track. The biggest thing is I know this team misses him and misses his presence
here.” Depth chart released: Outside linebacker Corey Lemonier was listed as a starter in Smith’s former spot on the 49ers’ first unofficial depth chart. Lemonier figures to compete with Aaron Lynch, who was has been slowed by an undisclosed injury, and rookie Eli Harold for the starting spot in Week 1.
The 49ers listed running back Reggie Bush as the starting punt and kickoff returner. Wide receiver Bruce Ellington returned punts last year, but he is sidelined by a muscle strain.
On Tuesday, head coach Jim Tomsula said the depth chart would be fluid leading to the regular-season opener: “You will see those be manipulated throughout the course of the preseason,” he said.
“Anyone (who) believes that and goes about reporting that just doesn’t have the best integrity in my mind.”
Colin Kapernick, 49ers quarterback