Kelly: Kaepernick Not Fully Healthy, Strong Enough to Be No. 2

SANTA CLARA – Quarterback Colin Kaepernick is not physically ready to be the team's starter, but he is still the 49ers' backup, coach Chip Kelly said on Monday.

"Kap is definitely our No. 2 right now," Kelly told reporters during his press conference, a day after the 49ers' 37-18 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. "I don't think Kap is 100 percent right now.

"He's capable to be the backup. He's not ready to go full-time."

[MAIOCCO: Seahawks defender: Kap gives 49ers best chance, Gabbert 'no challenge']

Kaepernick lost significant weight during the offseason while rehabbing from surgeries to his left shoulder, right thumb and left knee. He has continued to slowly regain his strength, but is not back up to his 225 playing weight of the past, Kelly said.

On Monday, Kaepernick was seen working out near the 49ers' weight room on the players' day off.

Kaepernick has suited up as the team's backup quarterback behind Blaine Gabbert for the first three games. Christian Ponder is the 49ers' No. 3 quarterback and has not been available for games. Ponder has been inactive for the first three games of the season.

Copyright CSNBY - CSN BAY
Contact Us