Colin Kaepernick is reportedly planning to opt out of his contract after the 2016 season and become a free agent.
Kaepernick and the San Francisco 49ers agreed to a restructured contract earlier in the year, and the new deal includes a player option for 2017 and a guarantee that the Niners cannot use the franchise tag on him. Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reports that Kaepernick will void the deal, though he could end up returning to San Francisco.
Kaepernick, who is just 29, has played well over the last month. He has thrown eight touchdowns compared to two interceptions in the last four games and rushed for more than 100 yards against the Miami Dolphins last weekend. After getting off to a rough start back in October when Blaine Gabbert was benched, Kaepernick has looked more comfortable in Chip Kelly’s offense.
If Kelly sticks around in San Francisco (and that could be a big if considering the latest rumors), he may look to bring Kaepernick back on a new deal. Rapoport noted that the relationship between Kelly and Kaepernick, which got off to a rocky start, is in a “very good place” and that Kaepernick appreciates the team standing by him while he has taken strong political stances.
