The 49ers are working on a new contract for quarterback Colin Kaepernick, perhaps setting the stage for Kaepernick to replace Blaine Gabbert as the starter in San Francisco.
The deal the two sides are working on would alleviate the 49ers’ concerns about Kaepernick’s injury guarantees, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
The new deal would shorten Kaepernick’s deal and eliminate his guarantees in 2017. That means the 49ers could play Kaepernick and not have to worry about owing him more money in the future if he gets hurt in 2016.
The deal would also allow Kaepernick to void the contract after the season, a powerful incentive to Kaepernick to play well and give himself a chance to test the free market next year.
With 49ers coach Chip Kelly acknowledging that he needs to look at whether to make a change at quarterback, a new contract might be the last obstacle to Kaepernick retaking his role as the 49ers’ starter.