49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick reportedly wants out of San Francisco and would like to play for the New York Jets next season, according to Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News.
Kaepernick's 2015 season did not go the way he had planned it, as he posted a record of 2-6 before being benched midway through the season. The 49ers have since hired a new head coach in Chip Kelly, and CEO Jed York has stated that the quarterback would get a "fresh start" next season.
Jets general manager Mike Maccagan has stated that the organization is confident they can resign quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, but they are reportedly still in the offseason planning and evaluation and are intrigued in Kaepernick's desire to play for them.
The Jets missed the playoffs after losing their regular season finale against AFC East rival the Buffalo Bills but managed to post a 10-6 record under first-year head coach Todd Bowles. The Jets would have to trade for the 49ers quarterback or wait for him to be cut, as he still has five years left on his $114 million extension he signed in 2014.
The 49ers front office will have an important decision to make by April 1, as that is when Kaepernick's 2016 base salary of $11.9 million becomes guaranteed. It will be interesting to see how the 49ers handle the situation with Kaepernick, as some believe that he will be a great fit in Kelly's fast-paced offensive system.
Despite Kaepernick's poor play on the field this season, teams likely still have interest in the former second round quarterback, as they know that he was a key factor in leading the 49ers to the Super Bowl during the 2012 regular season. While Kaepernick may have an interest in playing for another team in 2016, the 49ers front office holds the cards, as they will decide whether Kaepernick will remain in San Francisco.
