Why Are the San Francisco 49ers Putting Colin Kaepernick’s Jersey On Sale?

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick has been on injured reserve for a little more than a week with what has been reported to be a torn labrum in his left shoulder. What this means for his future with the organization isn’t official, but it’s widely believed Kaepernick’s days with the 49ers are numbered. The former starter was benched last month by head coach Jim Tomsula in favor of Blaine Gabbert, which should tell you just how bad things are between Kaepernick and the 49ers.

So it’s interesting that Kaepernick’s apparel is being discounted on the 49ers’ official shop site. Now, before anyone believes this is little more than an online deal in a prime shopping period of the holiday season, CBS Sports points out that Gabbert’s jerseys are still at full price. Here’s a screenshot of Kaepernick’s gear below (via Larry Brown Sports):

Make of this what you will, but typically if gear is being discounted it’s because there won’t be a reason to sell it for much longer. That falls in line with the belief that Kaepernick won’t be in San Francisco next season. Tensions between Kaepernick and the 49ers have apparently been building for some time. Not only did Kaepernick get off to a horrible start this season, he’s reportedly been a source of frustration in the locker room. In October, CSN Bay Area reported an argument between Vernon Davis and Joe Staley “may have… gotten physical” over Kaepernick. In 2014, Kaepernick was accused of sexual assault at a Miami party. Charges were never filed, however. He was also fined by the NFL that year for using foul language.

So, yeah, it’s been a bad year and then some for Kaepernick, and it wouldn’t be surprising if the 49ers are ready to move on.  Is it a coincidence his jerseys are at discounted prices? Maybe. But there are certainly a number of tea leaves suggesting otherwise.

(Via Larry Brown Sports)