Former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick has penned a letter to the New York Jets expressing his willingness to assist the struggling team. The letter, made public by rapper J Cole on Instagram, is addressed to Jets general manager Joe Douglas. In it, Kaepernick expresses his desire to join the team and contribute as a practice squad quarterback with the primary objective of preparing the defense for each game.
After the season-ending Achilles injury to Aaron Rodgers in the Jets' opening game, the team's performance suffered, leading to a 1-2 record. This forced them to rely on Zach Wilson as the starting quarterback, who has struggled in the role. Kaepernick acknowledges potential doubts about his playing abilities but proposes that serving as a practice squad quarterback would allow the Jets to assess his capabilities without a significant commitment.
Kaepernick believes this arrangement would be mutually beneficial, offering the Jets an elite quarterback option if needed while allowing him to support the team's defense consistently throughout the season. Wilson, a former No. 2 overall pick, has faced challenges during his time with the Jets, prompting discussions about alternative quarterback options.
Notably, Joe Namath, the Jets' only Super Bowl-winning quarterback, has advocated for a change in the quarterback position. To address this situation, the Jets signed veteran quarterback Trevor Siemian to the practice squad, but uncertainty about Wilson's role persists.
Kaepernick, who has not played in the NFL since 2016 due to his national anthem protests against police brutality and racial injustice, emphasizes in the letter that he has continued to train diligently and remains ready for an opportunity in the league.
In addition to offering his football skills, Kaepernick provides references from his former coaches, Jim Harbaugh and Chip Kelly, as well as Las Vegas Raiders owner Mark Davis.
Meanwhile, Aaron Rodgers, despite being unable to play, seeks to provide leadership and unity within the Jets' locker room, encouraging the team to focus on their responsibilities and handle success and adversity maturely. Rodgers emphasizes the need for teamwork and support, both on and off the field.
The Jets face a tough upcoming game against the reigning champion Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday night.