Report: NFL Teams Invited to Private Workout for Colin Kaepernick
All 32 NFL teams have been invited to a private workout for free-agent quarterback Colin Kaepernick in Atlanta on Saturday, according to ESPN.
Teams received a memo about the event, where they can evaluate Kaepernick's readiness and level of interest in resuming his career. The session will include both an on-field workout and an interview. Video of the workout and the interview will be made available to them.
The NFL initially agreed to provide Kaepernick's camp with the list of personnel executives and coaches that would attend the workout, but on Wednesday night ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the NFL has "reversed course" and will not.
"Earlier this year, we discussed some possible steps with his representatives and they recently emphasized his level of preparation and that he is ready to work out for clubs and be interviewed by them," the memo said, per ESPN. "We have therefore arranged this opportunity for him to work out, and for all clubs to have the opportunity to evaluate his current readiness and level of interest in resuming his NFL career."
The scheduled workout comes one month after Kaepernick's agents released a statement reaffirming the former 49ers quarterback's desire to play in the NFL.
"I’m just getting word from my representatives that the NFL league office reached out to them about a workout in Atlanta on Saturday," Kaepernick tweeted on Tuesday. "I’ve been in shape and ready for this for 3 years, can’t wait to see the head coaches and GMs on Saturday."
Representatives for Kaepernick wanted the workout to be on Tuesday, but the NFL denied the request, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Kaepernick, 32, has not played football since 2016 when he began kneeling during the national anthem as a means of protesting racial inequality and police brutality. Dozens of other NFL players ultimately joined him. In 2017, Kaepernick opted out of his 49ers contract in March and later filed a grievance with former teammate Eric Reid against the NFL for collusion. The two sides reached an agreement on a settlement in February 2019.
While waiting for a contract, Kaepernick has continued to work out and stay ready for a chance to return to the NFL.