Predicting 49ers 2016 53-Man Roster After OTAs

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Nov 1, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) passes the ball under pressure from St. Louis Rams defensive end William Hayes (95) during the second half at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

Quarterback

Colin Kaepernick– Whether fans are happy he’s here or not, Chip Kelly likely is. Kaepernick has suffered a serious decline but the team has the money to pay him for one more year. Perhaps Kelly really can fix what’s broken.

Blaine Gabbert– He’ll never be an excellent starting quarterback but Blaine Gabbert is a safe backup and has shown some mental fortitude after everything he’s endured throughout his career. The team keeps him around for at least another year. He’ll push to start all throughout summer.

Jeff Driskel– Chip Kelly kept three quarterbacks on his 53-man roster in Philadelphia. I considered sending Driskel to the practice squad but 6’4″ and 234 pound quarterbacks don’t exactly grow on trees. I think teams would be intrigued enough by Driskel to sign him away from the team.

Starter: Colin Kaepernick

Blaine Gabbert is likely the safer option but Kaepernick is just a few years removed from playing in big games. Chip Kelly may believe that his scheme can protect Kap from himself. This call could take the entire preseason for Kelly to make.

Next: Running Backs