Written by Manish Metha at NyDailyNews.com
The Jets’ decades-long search for a franchise quarterback could unexpectedly land them one of the most dynamic players in the league.
The Daily News has learned that embattled 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick wants out of San Francisco after a forgettable 2015 that included on-field struggles that resulted in a benching midway through the season and a coaching change after it. The Jets are his preferred destination, according to sources.
The Jets, aware of Kaepernick’s desire to play for them, are intrigued, but still in the early stages of their offseason planning and evaluation, according to sources. They’re also deathly afraid of tampering (see: Darrelle Revis situation, circa 2015).
General manager Mike Maccagnan and head coach Todd Bowles have expressed their desire to re-sign impending free agent Ryan Fitzpatrick, but nothing is guaranteed. (The Jets and Fitzpatrick’s camp are expected to discuss an extension in the coming weeks).
Although Kaepernick wants to play in New York, he still has five years remaining on a blockbuster $114 million extension signed in 2014 that includes escape hatches for his current employer. The Jets, coming off a 10-win season, would have to trade for Kaepernick or wait until he’s cut.
The 49ers must make a decision to keep, trade or cut Kaepernick before April 1 when his 2016 base salary of $11.9 million becomes guaranteed. San Francisco would save $8.5 million by cutting Kaepernick, who is scheduled to have a $15.9 million cap charge this season.
The possibility of landing the 28-year-old dual-threat signal caller presents an interesting option for the Jets, who still want to bring back Fitzpatrick as a short-term solution at the right price. Kaepernick, however, offers Maccagnan and Bowles the rare opportunity to land a difference-making quarterback entering his prime at a discounted rate.
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