Colin Kaepernick Reasserts NFL Ambitions, Jemele Hill Suggests Falcons Sign Him

Colin Kaepernick has stated that he continues to train daily with the belief that he can still play in the National Football League. Speaking at the Black Footwear Forum in Detroit, Kaepernick reiterated his readiness for an NFL opportunity.

Following his remarks, commentator Jemele Hill suggested that the Atlanta Falcons should consider signing Kaepernick. Hill noted the Falcons' quarterback situation and referenced Atlanta as a "Black city."

Kaepernick, who has not played in the NFL since 2016, would be nearing 39 years old by November. The author of the provided notes argues that a decade-long absence from professional football makes a player's return highly unlikely, regardless of fitness levels. The notes also contend that Kaepernick's previous tenure in the league was marked by distractions that his on-field performance did not justify, suggesting that signing him now would create a similar media circus, potentially leading to accusations of racism if he were benched or cut.

The author points to Cooper Rush, the current quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys, as an example of an active NFL player who, while not ideal, is functional. Rush, who has played since 2021, went 12-of-22 for 143 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions in a recent loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. The argument is made that Kaepernick would not be functional after such an extended break from the game.

NFL teams have previously passed on Kaepernick not solely due to his activism, but also because of the distractions that accompanied him. The notes suggest that Kaepernick was not worth the associated trouble a decade ago and is even less so now.