Eric Reid Says Colin Kaepernick Workout 'Feels Like a PR Stunt' By NFL

Eric Reid wonders what NFL teams will show up to Colin Kaepernick's workout

Former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick is set to hold a private workout for NFL teams despite not playing in the league for the past three years. Carolina Panthers safety Eric Reid says the workout "feels like a PR stunt" and described it as "disingenuous."

Reid explained that it remains to be seen what teams will show up because the workout is scheduled for the day before games. 

Eric Reid explaining how the Saturday timing of Colin Kapernick’s workout makes this seem “disingenuous”: pic.twitter.com/sBrJCE0CaI

— Brendan Marks (@BrendanRMarks) November 13, 2019

Kaepernick's representatives were reportedly surprised by the set date for the official workout and tried to get it moved to a Tuesday or next Saturday. The NFL said no and did not provide a reason.

ESPN's Adam Schefter was the first to report that NFL clubs were informed of the private workout on Saturday and that all clubs would be invited to attend. Videos from the workout and interview will also be made available.

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," a league memo to all teams said. "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.”

Kaepernick has not played in the league since Jan. 1, 2017 and opted out of his contract with the 49ers in March 2017.

"I’ve been in shape and ready for this for 3 years, can’t wait to see the head coaches and GMs on Saturday," Kaepernick tweeted on Tuesday.

In his six years with San Francisco, Kaepernick racked up 12,271 passing yards and 72 touchdowns in 69 career games.

Reid was asked by reporters whether Saturday's workout would be a signal of progress for Kaepernick.

“I’ll quote Malcolm X," Reid said, according to ESPN's David Newton. "If you stick a knife nine inches in my back and pull it out six, it’s not progress. It’s still a knife in my back.’’