The Michigan football program announced Wednesday that Colin Kaepernick will be an honorary captain for their Maize and Blue Spring Game on Saturday, April 2. It’s a reunion for head coach Jim Harbaugh and Kaepernick, who worked together as head coach and starting quarterback of the San Francisco 49ers for several seasons.
Football Family.
Excited to share the field with our honorary captain for Saturday's Maize and Blue Spring Game, @Kaepernick7 #GoBlue 〽 pic.twitter.com/2H6Yj2Ivwl
— Michigan Football (@UMichFootball) March 30, 2022
Given Kaepernick’s story, the announcement certainly caused some strong reactions from around the football world.
The former NFL quarterback turned activist has been trying to build momentum for a comeback this offseason and this appearance will include a throwing demonstration at halftime of the game. So far, NFL teams haven’t taken him up on the offer but he’s clearly motivated to continue proving himself.
While opinions and reactions from fans are one thing, what’s most important is how the Wolverines players feel about Kaepernick being around the program this week. And based on some of the comments so far, they’re excited to be able to spend time with him.
“I’m very appreciative of coach Harbaugh actually bringing him in to us and having him talk to us, lay some gems down for us, and just listening to what he has to say,” Michigan edge-rusher Jaylen Harrell said. “What he brings, his experiences, and how we can apply that to our day-to-day life. It’s a blessing for coach Harbaugh to bring Colin Kaepernick into the building.”
Defensive lineman Kris Jenkins appreciated the message that Kaepernick shared when he met with the team this week.
“He’s a really nice, positive dude, it’s great to have him here,” Jenkins said. “We’re excited to have him as our honorary captain for the spring game, and also excited to have him throw the ball around a little bit at halftime.”
Jenkins also admitted that he’s concerned the 34-year-old former quarterback might be in better shape than him and some of the other Michigan players.
“When he stood up in front of the team, I’m not too proud to say this but he was bigger than me so I was like ‘wow’. I definitely think he’s still got a lot left in the tank,” Jenkins said.
We’ll see what kind of reaction Kaepernick gets at the spring game this weekend, but it sounds like the team is excited to have him around in the meantime.
