Denver Broncos will have a scout at Colin Kaepernick’s workout
According to multiple reports, the Denver Broncos will be represented at Colin Kaepernick’s workout on Saturday by one of their pro scouts.
The Denver Broncos will give Colin Kaepernick a chance to impress them in his workout, scheduled for Saturday in Atlanta, according to multiple reports, including a confirmation from John Elway himself.
Although the Denver Broncos — including Elway — will be traveling to Minneapolis to take on the Minnesota Vikings on Saturday, the Broncos will apparently be sending a pro scout to watch Kaepernick’s workout.
With less than half of the league expected to attend the workout, the Broncos’ presence is at least somewhat notable. It’s more notable considering the team has already had face-to-face meetings with Kaepernick (back in 2016) and has a head coach who worked (albeit indirectly) with Kaepernick from 2011-14.
So, you might be asking yourself why this is notable. Let me first refer you to a post I wrote about Kaepernick and the Broncos on Tuesday, which outlines some of my thoughts in much greater detail.
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1. Vic Fangio
As I mentioned before, Vic Fangio worked as the San Francisco 49ers during Kaepernick’s prime years there from 2011-14.
The 49ers were 25-14 with Kaepernick as the starter over that timeframe, and made it to the Super Bowl in the 2012 season.
Enough was made about Fangio’s brief connection with Joe Flacco when the two were in Baltimore back Flacco’s early years with the team. I’m sure the connection between Fangio and Kaepernick will be part of the consideration here as well.
2. He doesn’t have to start
The misconception out there right now is that Kaepernick is auditioning for a starting gig in the NFL right now. That’s not likely the case.
In fact, my opinion is that this move would be more for 2020 than anything else, and the Broncos would have the opportunity to have Kaepernick come in and back up Drew Lock next season while learning their offense the rest of the way in 2019.
As a backup/spot-starting option, Kaepernick is intriguing due to his ability to run and throw, and his experience in big games.
3. He’s already met with Elway
Although Elway was turned down once before by Kaepernick, the Bronco sending a scout to his workout indicates there’s at least a chance that is water under the bridge.
The Broncos coveted Kaepernick in 2016 when things fell apart with Brock Osweiler. They had even agreed to a trade with the 49ers in the event that Kaepernick would accept their new contract offer.
He didn’t, but the two sides met face-to-face throughout the process so they obviously have history together.
4. Quarterbacks are currency
Look at what the New York Jets were able to get in exchange for Teddy Bridgewater, whom they had no intention of starting in 2018. The Saints sent them a 3rd-round pick just for Teddy to be the backup to Drew Brees. Now the Saints could be in-line for a high compensatory pick if Bridgwater leaves via free agency.
In the NFL today, you need as many talented QBs as you can find. Just look at the Broncos, who are one snap away from undrafted rookie Brett Rypien starting regular season games for them.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, look at the success the Tennessee Titans are having with an experienced pro like Ryan Tannehill as a backup and now starter. Look at the Colts with Jacoby Brissett.
There are plenty of examples of teams who have benefitted both in terms of draft currency and regular season games because of their depth at quarterback. If you can build a deep stable at QB, you have to do it.
5. Best/worst-case scenario
The worst-case scenario here? You cut the guy and it doesn’t work out.
The best-case scenario? Well, maybe his time off did him some good like it did Mike Vick back in 2009, and you get a guy who is not only capable of being a good backup but maybe even starting for you or someone else when called upon.
What if Kaepernick is, in the best-case scenario, your backup QB or someone wants to trade for him after he does well in preseason play?
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At the price he’s likely to command, that’s a reasonable risk to take.