The San Francisco 49ers have been inundated with problems since Patrick Willis's retirement. Problems that include losing two head coaches; losing players to injury, suspension and retirements; and Colin Kaepernick's loaded contract and lack of production.
Kaepernick's $11.9-million cap hit made him a prime target to be released this offseason, however it appears the 49ers and Kaepernick might be changing their tune, according to Fox Sports. 49ers general manager Trent Baalke recently stated that he expects Kaepernick to remain on the roster through April 1 as he looks to regain his starting spot. Kaepernick has been away rehabbing in Colorado after undergoing surgery on his left shoulder, left knee and right thumb. The injuries reportedly plagued him during the 2015 season and he was eventually benched for Blaine Gabbert.
San Francisco was expected to draft a quarterback with the number seven overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, however this meeting with Kaepernick may change that situation. The 49ers could look to improve their secondary as they will have a shot at one of the top cornerbacks in the draft, according to the Sacramento Bee. San Fran's new head coach Chip Kelly loves Kaepernick and wants him on the team as his quarterback; however doubts remain that any of the 49ers coaches or brass want Kaepernick's $11.9-million salary cap hit.
The two sides will meet at the NFL Combine to get a firm grasp on where Kaepernick is in his development and if his contract can be renegotiated. The feeling appears to be mutual as Kaepernick reportedly wants to stay in San Francisco.
Baalke has also stated that the 49ers current starting running back Carlos Hyde is an "ideal" fit for Kelly's run scheme. Hyde was injured for most of the 2015 season and has not become the dominant back the 49ers expected himt to be when they let Frank Gore leave in free agency. Hyde and Kaepernick will need to show a ton of resilience if they are going to remain on this team and earn a starting job.
