Colin Kaepernick Trade isn’t what the 49ers Need

By Brandon Keller | Jun 9, 2015

Yesterday, ESPN featured an article by John Clayton titled “Niners’ drop off could lead to an eventual Kaepernick trade.” He discussed the post-John Harbaugh outlook, the four retirements, four starters lost in free agency, and the future of Colin Kaepernick with the San Francisco 49ers.

Yes, the San Francisco 49ers went to three straight NFC Championship games and lost a Super Bowl, but Clayton may have exaggerated the “physical and mental toll” facing this team. Based on that fact along with the recent player losses, he thinks that the Niners might enter a full rebuilding process.

Is an 8-8 season really so much of a disaster that the team should trade one of the most athletic quarterbacks in the league?

Perhaps losing even more players isn’t exactly what the 49ers should be thinking about. With the return of Navorro Bowman, the Niners certainly have the potential to recover from last year’s defensive woes. Therefore, Kaepernick should have better support that will open up a stronger offensive attack.

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The Niners’ management might be considering a future trade of Kaepernick, but that would be foolish. How often do we see a team find success when they dispose of quarterbacks who have great potential provided a little patience?

Think back to the pre-Kaepernick era of Alex Smith. Wins didn’t simply string together out of nowhere. It took time to piece together the right players that turned the Niners into Super Bowl contenders. However, this is an era of the NFL where teams look for quick fixes and instant gratification.

Take a look at Eli Manning of the New York Giants. Yes, he had some awful seasons, but the Giants didn’t just dump him after a couple rough times. It is the responsibility of teams to show trust in their quarterbacks.

Instead of all of this talk about moving on from Kaepernick, more people should look at the positive things he bring to the Niners. Kaepernick knows the offense, and he clearly gets along greatly with receivers such as Anquan Boldin. If you need proof, check out one of those post-game interviews the two have done together. They look like true teammates.

Also, don’t forget that the Niners added a speedy target for Colin Kaepernick in receiver Torrey Smith.

It simply does not make sense to consider trading a QB with as much experience and potential as Kaepernick. Clayton also thinks the Niners might consider top draft picks for Kaepernick. Placing faith in possible first round quarterbacks rather than a proven starter does not make any sense either. Anybody can think of the numerous hyped quarterbacks from the first round of the draft who were busts and financial burdens.

In opposition to the Clayton article, NBC Bay Area reported that Kaepernick has “been an enthusiastic, vocal, and energetic player and leader.”

They further stated that:

"“the 49ers need Kaepernick now more than ever. With a new coaching staff, new offense and fresh start, a re-made Kaepernick – one who can elevate his game – could be the key to a resurgence.”"

Kaepernick proved that he is giving 100% effort to the Niners based on his recent off-season work with Kurt Warner. Hopefully, Warner was able to help Kaepernick improve on his strong arm and speed by developing better accuracy and pocket presence.

Beyond that, NBC Bay Area reminded us that the Niners have a new offensive coordinator that could push Kaepernick in the right direction even further.

Kaepernick is also excited about last year’s quarterbacks coach, Geep Chryst, being promoted to that offensive coordinator spot. NBC Bay Area also quoted Kaepernick’s thoughts on this:

"“I’m very excited about Geep being our OC. Great person, brilliant guy. And I think he’s very open to what the players’ input is during the game, during the week. And also, open to taking shots down the field and opening up the playbook. So, excited to see what he has in store for us.”"

The upcoming season doesn’t look as bleak for the Niners as Clayton made it appear. Despite the low points of last year’s campaign, Colin Kaepernick and the 49ers look ready to be winners again while having fun doing it.

Next: Bradley Pinion Set to Replace Andy Lee as 49ers' Punter

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