John Elway says Colin Kaepernick ‘had his chance’ with Broncos

The Denver Broncos appear to be having quarterback troubles once again this offseason, and some have raised the possibility that they could add another veteran before the season. On Thursday, John Elway made it clear that Colin Kaepernick will not be considered if the team goes that route.

Elway on Kaepernick as an option for a vet backup QB spot: “Colin had his chance here. We offered him a contract. He didn’t take it. So, As I said it in my deposition, I don’t know if i’ll be legally able to say this, but he’s had his chance to be here. He passed it"

— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) August 16, 2018

“Colin had his chance here. We offered him a contract. He didn’t take it. So, As I said it in my deposition, I don’t know if i’ll be legally able to say this, but he’s had his chance to be here. He passed it,” Elway said.

Two years ago, the 49ers and Broncos were discussing a Kaepernick trade. Kaepernick was guaranteed to make $11.9 million in base salary for the 2016 season, and Denver wanted him to accept a pay cut as part of the deal. They reportedly wanted him for $7 million. He declined, so the trade fell through. Kaepernick instead played out the 2016 season with the 49ers under his guaranteed deal, which is the season he started kneeling and the 49ers went 2-14.

Some are interpreting Elway’s comment as if Kaepernick turned down an offer from the Broncos after he started kneeling, but that’s not the case. Elway liked Kaepernick then and wanted him on the team, but Kaep turned him down. That probably still stings for Elway.