49ers GM on Colin Kaepernick Deal: Always look to reward our players
By Mike Dyce
The San Francisco 49ers signed quarterback Colin Kaepernick to a large $120 million dollar six-year extension that will keep him with the team through the 2020 season. A pretty large deal for a player who has started less than two seasons worth of games, but has managed to lead the team to two NFC Championship games and a Super Bowl appearance.
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In a possible message to other players on the 49ers who need to be extended, 49ers general manager Trent Baalke took this deal as an opportunity to remind everyone that the organization looks to reward their players.
“Colin’s hard work and dedication have played an integral role in the recent success of the 49ers organization,” Baalke said in a statement released by the team. “His work ethic, leadership and on-field production have positively influenced our team, and we look forward to his continued growth in all areas.
“Our organization always looks to reward our players for their contributions and commitment to the team. Colin’s agents, Scott Smith and Jason Bernstein, along with Paraag Marathe and Brian Hampton, should be commended for working diligently to reach an agreement.”
The 2013 season was the first for Kaepernick as a started after Alex Smith was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs and started all 16 games and all three playoff games. Kaepernick had 243 completions for 3,197 yards and 21 touchdowns through the air. He also ran 92 times for 542 yards and four touchdowns.
Kaepernick’s dual threat ability makes him a unique player and one that should be rewarded for the amount of weapons he brings to the table, but at the same time you have to be concerned with him running and putting himself at risk after a huge commitment like this.