There is pressure on Colin Kaepernick this upcoming season. The San Francisco 49ers are entering somewhat of a rebuilding phase with a new coaching staff in place and the pressure is on the quarterback to really exceed expectations in 2015. Kaepernick did not regress last season statistically, but doubt began to rise about his abilities to truly become a star. With several other quarterbacks in the same position, could Kaepernick face trade talk if he struggles?
According to ESPN's John Clayton, a trade of Kaepernick is a very real possibility the 49ers will face. Clayton writes this idea has been discussed a number of times between people within the 49ers franchise and if he shows signs of struggle this year, San Francisco might not have another option. The 49ers are already transitioning after long-time franchise stars like Frank Gore, Patrick Willis and Justin Smith departed while head coach Jim Harbaugh was fired. It is up to Kaepernick to respond accordingly.
The Chicago Bears are waiting to see if Jay Cutler pans out. The New York Jets have doubt in Geno Smith. The Cleveland Browns do not have a franchise star in Johnny Manziel. The Washington Redskins are hesitant with Robert Griffin III. If any of those players fall out of favor with their respective teams, Kaepernick becomes a target.
Right now, Kaepernick is focused on excelling in his current offense. The quarterback told the media that the team has really improved coming into OTAs and mini camp and he is excited to see how far they can go this year.
"We've cleaned a lot of things up, and made it more comfortable and friendly for players to be able to go out and make plays," Kaepernick said, via the San Mercury News. "I do feel like I need to do more, but not because of that. Offensively, last year for us, we feel it was a letdown. We we should be able to do more and we plan to do more this year. We're working toward that. As far as our defense, they're confident with who they have and who's playing. They're confident in their abilities to make plays over there."
Clayton writes that the 49ers could trade Kaepernick for a few high draft picks and then find a way to get a top quarterback prospect and re-tool the rest of the offense as well. Kaepernick was not the only reason the 49ers fell to 8-8 last year, but he is shouldering the blame and could be the first one out if it happens again.
