The NY Jets shouldn't waste their time with Colin Kaepernick

The NY Jets are exploring veteran quarterback options following the season-ending injury suffered by Aaron Rodgers on Monday night. Count former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick among those interested in the opportunity.

NFL insider Jordan Schultz reported on Tuesday that Kaepernick's agent has reached out to the Jets about the possibility of an NFL return. Kaepernick, who has not played an NFL game since 2016, has been seeking an opportunity to return to the league.

The 35-year-old last played with the San Francisco 49ers in 2016, starting 11 games before he opted out of his contract at the end of the season. He has not signed with an NFL team since, although he has had workouts with teams.

The Jets are exploring all of their options following Rodgers' injury, but it's hard to believe a 35-year-old Kaepernick, who hasn't played in seven years, will be atop their list.

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Colin Kaepernick doesn't make sense for the NY Jets

The Jets' options at the quarterback position aren't exactly promising. The team plans to stick with Zach Wilson for the foreseeable future, but they will likely be adding a veteran in the meantime.

Potential fee-agent targets include Carson Wentz, Nick Foles, Joe Flacco, or even new CBS broadcaster Matt Ryan. They could also explore a trade, with players like Jameis Winston, Case Keenum, and even Kyler Murray springing to mind.

It's difficult to envision a scenario in which the Jets sign Kaepernick. The 2016 version of Kaepernick — the one that threw for 16 touchdowns and only four interceptions with the 49ers — would be superior to almost every available option for the Jets.

But the 2023 version of Kaepernick that hasn't played an NFL game in seven years...not so much. While Kaepernick has remained in excellent shape as he's been seeking an NFL opportunity, it's hard to imagine he's the best option available for Gang Green.

Even ignoring the obvious rust, Kaepernick would be tasked with learning a completely new offense — one that is notoriously very difficult to pick up. That's a tall order for a QB who hasn't played since the Obama administration.

The Jets will leave no stone unturned as they search for a new quarterback to add to their roster, but as far as Colin Kaepernick is concerned, the team should probably look elsewhere.