Former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick remains hopeful for a return to the league, even as opportunities in coaching arise. Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh revealed that he had discussions with Kaepernick earlier this year about joining his staff in a non-playing role.
However, Kaepernick has yet to act on the offer, with Harbaugh noting that their conversation took place when Kaepernick was out of the country, and they have not reconnected since.
Kaepernick is still focused on resuming his playing career, telling Sky Sports that he is “still training, still pushing” for a return to the NFL. Harbaugh, who coached Kaepernick during their time with the San Francisco 49ers, believes that if Kaepernick chooses to transition into coaching, he will be highly successful.
Harbaugh is confident that Kaepernick would excel in a coaching role but acknowledges that playing football remains Kaepernick’s top priority.
Despite being unsigned since 2017, when he became a free agent after leading protests against police brutality by kneeling during the national anthem, Kaepernick has not given up on the possibility of returning to the NFL.
He views a potential return as a significant achievement, given his lifelong dedication to the sport. Harbaugh has continued to support Kaepernick throughout his time away from the league, even organizing a workout for him during a Michigan spring game in 2022 to showcase his abilities.
Although Harbaugh remains one of Kaepernick’s strongest advocates, he declined to comment specifically on Kaepernick’s ongoing efforts to rejoin the NFL. Harbaugh acknowledges the other responsibilities Kaepernick carries as a civil rights activist, which may influence his decision on whether to join the Chargers’ coaching staff.
Harbaugh understands that Kaepernick’s activism is a vital part of his life and may play a role in his reluctance to shift his focus entirely to coaching.
Ultimately, Harbaugh respects Kaepernick’s decisions, emphasizing that Kaepernick’s journey is his own to navigate. Whether Kaepernick returns to the NFL as a player or decides to transition into coaching, Harbaugh believes in his capabilities. For now, Kaepernick remains committed to both his athletic and activist pursuits, and his next steps in football are still undecided.
