San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator Curtis Modkins spoke with the media on Tuesday morning. He was asked a few questions regarding the quarterback competition between Blaine Gabbert, who has started the past two preseason games, and Colin Kaepernick, who returned to throw in practice this week. He had been resting his throwing arm since suffering from a muscle issue. Kaepernick had last fully practiced with his teammates on August 10.
"I thought Colin was fine yesterday," said Modkins in regard to Kaepernick's performance in practice on Monday. "I don't think there's anything different as far as where he stands on the competition. We'll see how the week goes, see how he progresses, and see what happens on Friday (against the Packers)."
Modkins was asked how Gabbert did during his first two preseason games. "Blaine's done a good job," answered Modkins. "I was pleased with what he did. I like to see how he started and he responded. He got the team moving. So I think Blaine's done a good job. He's been accurate with the ball. All of our quarterbacks have and I think Blaine's been good."
Modkins was alter asked, if Gabbert has done such a good job, why hasn't the team named him the starter yet? "It's not time," answered Modkins. "It's a competition and Kap hasn't had a chance to perform yet. So when that happens and when coach feels like it's time, we'll do that, but right now it's not time. We've still got a ways to go before we play."
Kaepernick fully practiced with the team on Monday and reportedly looked good. The team is trying to prepare him to play during the team's Week 3 preseason matchup, commonly called the "dress rehearsal," against the Green Bay Packers on Friday.
The coaching staff has repeatedly stated that preseason will be huge for evaluating the two quarterbacks and deciding on a regular season starter. Until now, the competition has seen Gabbert go unchallenged. Kaepernick hopes to change that this week.
Prior to Saturday's victory over the Denver Broncos, Kaepernick was seen on the field about two hours before kickoff. He reportedly threw over 50 passes, varying in distance, in about a 30-minute window.
