While NFL training camps are just opening up, some of the play out of the quarterback position has people scratching their heads.
For some reason, Colin Kaepernick still does not have a job for the 2017 NFL season, though teams may start calling soon. Baltimore Ravens backup Ryan Mallett, and Jacksonville Jaguars starter Blake Bortles both looked terrible during their teams first practices this week, and each franchise should give Kaepernick a look. While not the star he once was, Kaepernick is more than capable of winning at the NFL level, and his time on the unemployment line may be ending soon.
For 11 seasons, Rob Ninkovich put together an impressive NFL career, and it came to an end on Sunday. The linebacker retired from the New England Patriots, ending his career with a couple of Super Bowl rings, and a lot of respect. Ninkovich finished his career fifth all-time in Patriots history with 46 sacks, and in total, he racked up 460 tackles and was a solid part of the team’s championship run last season.
Xavier Rhodes is a talented defensive back for the Minnesota Vikings, and the team did their best on Sunday to keep it that way. Heading into the final season of his rookie contract, Rhodes signed a $70 million extension with the Vikings, including a $12 million signing bonus. Of the $70 million, $41 of it is guaranteed, which sounded like a great deal for the 27-year-old who made his first Pro Bowl last season.
Mike Williams helped will the Clemson Tigers to the national title last season, earning his place in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft. However, he has been bothered by back troubles ever since, and will start training camp on the PUP list. On Sunday, it was announced that he will not be available during camp at all, which is a terrible sign for Los Angeles Chargers fans who had to endure the loss of Keenan Allen all last season.
Next: Christian McCaffrey drawing rave reviews at Panthers Camp
Finally, it looks like Doug Martin may not have a starting job to return to after his suspension to start the 2017 NFL season is over with. The running back for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers still has three games left on his suspension, but general manager Jason Licht told ESPN’s Dan Graziano that he might not start when he returns. The back looks very good this Summer, and is running the ball hard, but the team also has Jacquizz Rodgers and Charles Sims on the depth chart.