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Colin Kaepernick: 5 Possible Landing Spots for 49ers QB in 2017

By Peter Panacy

Nov 13, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) looks on after losing 23-20 to the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 13, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) looks on after losing 23-20 to the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 27, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer (3) embraces San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) following the game at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 27, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer (3) embraces San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) following the game at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 1: Arizona Cardinals

Let’s face it. Quarterback Carson Palmer is nearing the end of the road. At 37 years old, one has to wonder just how much he has left in the tank. And whether or not his aging body can hold off the ever-worrisome injuries.

The problem with signing Colin Kaepernick is Palmer is already under contract through 2018. And the cap hit, should Arizona cut him, would be significant:

In all likelihood, Palmer is still going to be the guy next year. But the 4-5-1 Cardinals have to be thinking of the future.

They should be thinking about a strong reserve option too.

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Here’s where Kap to Arizona makes sense. The chances of Palmer suffering another injury between now and Week 1 of 2017 is high. And that risk carries over through all of next season. 2014 showed us what happens when the Cardinals lose Palmer.

Kaepernick wouldn’t come in as a day-one starter here. But he’d be a worthy backup option should Palmer go down.

Which team Kap lands with next year, if he leaves, is anyone’s guess. And who knows what other general managers around the league think of his services.

Next: Why Chip Kelly Remains Head Coach of the 49ers in 2017

Until then, let the speculation continue.