Because who doesn't go to TMZ for all of their sports news? San Francisco 49ers QB Colin Kaepernick has gone public with his relationship with Hot 97 host Nessa. The couple attended the Valentine Hearts fundraiser to benefit Camp Taylor – a free camp for kids battling heart disease – where they spent hours hanging out with the campers. TMZ reports that the couple has been dating for months, but never confirmed their relationship publicly until this worthy cause.
Many may remember that there were rumors that Kaepernick and former 49ers LB Aldon Smith, who is now with the Oakland Raiders, got into an altercation during a team practice. Of course, this report was disputed by players and some of the media. Of course, Matt Maiocco of CSN Bay Area reported that some of the practice sessions were closed to the media so there was an opportunity for something to happen without it being seen by them.
Kyle McLorg of Bay Area Sports Guy reported that "[Nessa] had once been dating Smith, and when a relationship blossomed between she and Kaepernick, tension ensued between Smith and his quarterback."
Amid recent rumors that Kaepernick had a desire to play for the New York Jets and no longer wanted to be in San Francisco, there was a report that it was Nessa, who lives in New York, that wanted Kaepernick closer to her. The rumor was later debunked by Dom Cosentino of New Jersey On-Line who, according to another anonymous source familiar with the situation, stated that the report was untrue.
Blessed to have the entire @Kaepernick7 family as dear friends! Together, we create much happiness for #CHD kids! pic.twitter.com/YTEuhKskKf
— Camp Taylor (@Camp_Taylor) February 15, 2016
Kaepernick's status with the team remains in limbo. He is recovering from multiple surgeries and his base salary of $11.9 million becomes fully gauranteed on April 1. The team may look to the draft or to free agency for a quarterback of the future or may give Kaepernick a shot in new head coach Chip Kelly's system.