The New York Giants had every intention of scouting free agent quarterback Colin Kaepernick last week in Atlanta when the former San Francisco 49ers star was scheduled to participate in a Pro Day-style workout for two dozen or so NFL teams.
When the workout was moved 60 miles south of the Atlanta Falcons’ headquarters in Flowery Branch, the Giants were one of the many teams that could not make the trip. So, they missed out. Only eight teams were able to attend the rescheduled event.
The 32-year-old Kaepernick, who last played in the NFL in 2016, has yet to receive an offer from an NFL team even though he proved at his workout that he is in fine physical condition and could certainly still play in this league.
Who knows if the Giants were genuinely interested in Kaepernick or if they were simply showing their due diligence. This way they can at least say they tried even though in all likelihood they had no intention of signing him. Several Giants spoke out about the Kaepernick situation this week.
Not everyone was willing to talk on the record or at all about Kaepernick. This was a reminder of how sensitive this matter remains. Outside linebacker Markus Golden, for example, said he had no opinion and could not speak on it, but he’d answer football questions.
Kaepernick’s original protest of racial oppression and police brutality, though, continues to inspire support from the rank and file.
“What he represents I fully support, with what’s going on in our country as far as people of color being treated unfairly,” safety Deone Bucannon said. “I’m an African-American man, as well. I’m in his corner … He’s working hard. As a football player and a person, I respect him.”
Beal reminded that Kaepernick never wanted to stop playing. “What he did was freedom of speech,” cornerback Sam Beal said. “So you basically punished him for his own opinion, for what his personal beliefs are.”
Once Saturday’s workout happened, though, even with all the drama, veteran safety Antoine Bethea said at least one thing came out of it.
“I don’t know all the facts,” the veteran safety said, “but I do appreciate that he was given an opportunity to showcase his abilities. I think it should have been done a long time ago.”
Whether or not Kaepernick ever gets his shot to play again remains to be seen. One thing is for sure, though — he’s made an impact on this league, this game, its players, its owners and its fans as well as on American society.
There is no one in this country that doesn’t have an opinion on him or his actions — one way or the other. His point has been made, like it or not. Football is just the backdrop for his story.
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