Kaepernick pens letter to Jets GM for practice squad opportunity

Former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick wrote a letter to New York Jets general manager Joe Douglas asking for an opportunity to lead the practice squad, according to rap artist J. Cole, who shared the document Tuesday on Instagram.

"I know that there are currently depth issues at the position, and I've heard that the back-up spot is likely to be filled by a veteran quarterback," Kaepernick wrote in the letter dated Sept. 21. "As much as I would love the opportunity to fill that spot, I'm writing you in hopes that you can imagine a much different approach involving me. I would be honored and extremely grateful for the opportunity to come in and lead the practice squad. I would do this with the sole mission of getting your defense ready each week."

Cole said on Instagram that Kaepernick was initially reluctant to let him share the letter.

Kaepernick stated that this opportunity would give the Jets an edge in preparing for athletic quarterbacks and the chance to judge his own ability while not putting any pressure on Zach Wilson.

The 35-year-old last played for the 49ers during the 2016 campaign when he began kneeling during the U.S. national anthem to protest police brutality and racial injustice. He worked out for the Las Vegas Raiders last year but left without striking a deal.

The Jets added to their quarterback depth Tuesday by signing journeyman Trevor Siemian to the practice squad.

The Jets have fallen to 1-2 after losing two straight games, both started by Wilson. The former No. 2 overall pick has struggled under center since replacing the injured Aaron Rodgers, totaling two touchdowns and four interceptions.