Although the New York Jets have already drafted a third quarterback in Trevor Siemian, Colin Kaepernick is applying for the Jets’ practice-squad playmaker job – with an open letter.

When a team is in search of a third quarterback because one of the previously established trio is injured, the procedure is really always the same. The franchise invites various playmakers to a tryout and signs the one who performed best for the practice squad.

Colin Kaepernick, however, chose a somewhat unusual path. The 35-year old applied for the position of third quarterback for the New York Jets on his own initiative with an open letter.

Kaepernick: “Would carry the responsibility with pride “

Rapper J. Cole posted on Instagram. “I know you currently have issues at the depth of the quarterback position,” Kaepernick wrote in the letter, addressed to Jets general manager Joe Douglas. “I would love to lead your practice squad. I would sharpen your defence every week, that would be my mission.”

In the letter, the quarterback, who has now not played a game in about seven years, makes his case. “Worst case scenario, you guys look at what I have to offer and you are unimpressed. At best, though,” the former San Francisco 49er writes, “you realise you have a real weapon in your arsenal in me, should you ever need one.”

“No matter which of those scenarios, I would carry that responsibility with pride,” Kaepernick continues.

Kaepernick doesn’t want to be a Wilson competitor

In addition, the 35-year-old insists he doesn’t want to be a competitor for Zach Wilson, in whom the Jets have once again expressed their confidence.

“I wouldn’t put any pressure on Zach because I’m just the practice squad quarterback. I of all people know how important it is to give him confidence and keep him focused on his role as the starting quarterback.”

However, Kaepernick would “of course” be ready should, “God forbid,” something happen to Wilson. Furthermore, in the letter, he still talks about his training schedule, which is said to have not changed in the past six years.

: Colin Kaepernick wrote a letter, released through J. Cole, asking the Jets to add him to the practice squad:

“Worst case scenario, you see what have to offer and you’re not that impressed.”

“Best case scenario, you realize you have a real weapon at your disposal… https://t.co/046FQwz83c pic.twitter.com/fYryhIjKLj

– Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) September 26, 2023

The date listed in the letter is September 21, about a week before the Jets signed Trevor Siemian. According to media reports, the Jets had already cancelled Kaepernick and his agent shortly after the Rodgers injury.