Earlier this week, it was rumored that the San Francisco 49ers are preparing a new contract for Colin Kaepernick that could make him the new starting quarterback of the team. But, according to a source, this contract might actually mark the end of Kaepernick's career with the 49ers.
Following a devastating fifth consecutive loss at Week 5 against the Arizona Cardinals, the 49ers have started re-evaluating the members of their roster. This includes Blaine Gabbert, the current No. 1 QB of the team.
Apparently, the San Francisco organization has decided to carry out a major restructuring in the team through new contracts. One of the athletes who is reportedly in the process of reviewing his new contract is Kaepernick.
Since his status as a backup QB has been the center of rumors for quite some time now, it was assumed that the new deal is for a starting position.
However, according to a source, the contract could be for Kaepernick's last year with the team. The anonymous insider noted that the contract still covers Kaepernick's starting spot for the 49ers. However, once this season ends, so will the quarterback's career with San Francisco.
Apparently, once the 2017 offseason rolls in, Kaepernick will be a free agent.
The move to retain Kaepernick for just one more season didn't come as a surprise especially since the team has been struggling in coping with his performance even during the offseason. As noted by coach Chip Kelly in the past, the reason why Kaepernick lost his starting role was because of his physical condition.
"Physically he is not where he was pre-injury," Kelly said. "Before that, he was a little bigger, a little bit faster, a little bit stronger. He will admit that. He's worked as hard as anybody I've been around in terms of his rehab."
Given the fact that the 49ers are struggling to stay afloat this season, carrying out major changes to the roster doesn't seem like a bad move for the team. And, if things work out well between the team and Kaepernick, specifically if he manages to turn things around for the 49ers, then the franchise could decide on keeping him for a longer time.
