NY Jets: Colin Kaepernick isn’t a realistic option

Traditionally, the NY Jets love making splashy headlines. However, for multiple reasons, they should resist the temptation to add quarterback Colin Kaepernick. 

Jets fans took an abrupt break from all the hype during Super Bowl week in light of the news that their team may be acquiring a new quarterback.

A recent article from the New York Daily News reported that 49ers’ quarterback Kaepernick wants to be traded, with the Jets being first on his list of potential destinations.

At first glance, this news seems thrilling for the Jets and their fans. After all, Kaepernick has been a dynamic dual-threat quarterback with a proven track record of playoff success (back to back NFC championship appearances).

However, there are a litany of reasons that the Jets will not, nor should they, try to acquire Kaepernick.

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For starters, contrary to the initial report, Kaepernick to the Jets is not even a realistic possibility.

Multiple reports, including ones by CBS sports and NJ.com, have already shot down the possibility of the Jets acquiring him.

Even if the Jets and Kaepernick had mutual interest in joining forces, its doubtful that the team would have the resources necessary to add him.

Take a look at Kaepernick’s bloated contract, courtesy of spoctrac.com.

Given their current cap situation, the Jets would have to wait for one of two possibilities if they were serious about adding Kaepernick. They would either have to trade away precious draft picks (they only have six in 2016) and renegotiate his contract, or wait for him to be released and hope to add him via free agency.

And even if the Jets had both the interest and means to bring Kaepernick to New York, it would still be a questionable decision at best. In spite of his past success, Kaepernick has recently been plagued with injury issues and ineffective play. Last season, he only played in nine games, throwing for six touchdowns and five interceptions.

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In addition to ineffective play and injuries comes concerns about team chemistry. Incumbent quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick has thrived in New York, throwing for a franchise high 31 touchdowns in 2015. Along the way, Fitzpatrick has gained the respect of his teammates. Brandon Marshall recently publicly declared his support for Fitzpatrick, noting that the team had no need to add Kaepernick.

Kaepernick to the Jets sounds fun on paper. But considering concerns about his play, his hefty price tag and the disruption he could cause in the locker room, the Jets should steer clear of the 49ers quarterback.