With the recent coming out party by Colin Kaepernick, I want to take a look at the potential for an extension for Kaepernick, which he will be eligible for after the 2013 season ends. It's obvious that the play and style that Kaepernick brings has taken the whole NFL by storm, but is he ready for an elite contract? That's the question.
Coming out of Nevada, Kaepernick is entering his 3rd season in the NFL and is just getting into his prime. It seems he has taken the NFL by storm with the pistol offense that he runs with smoothness. He isn't just a running quarterback, but also a effective passing quarterback.
Obviously Kaepernick's agents are likely looking at recent deals given out to Joe Flacco and Tony Romo. Flacco and Romo both got over $20 million in a signing bonus, which is all guaranteed and paid up front, but doesn't count against the cap. However, this is prorated over the max of 5 years.
I tend to see Kaepernick getting a cap friendly deal, which will either be for 6-years or just a smaller 4-year deal, so Kaepernick can cash in even more in the future.
My best bet is a deal more in the range of Matt Schaub, who got a 5-year deal worth $62 million including a $17.5 million signing bonus. Knowing the 49ers tactics with structuring contracts, I expect a $15 million signing bonus and, like in numerous contracts that the 49ers have signed lately, guarantees in base salaries depending on being on the roster on a certain date.
Also I can see per game roster bonuses, which the 49ers are notorious for doing so in contracts. Either $750,000 or up to $1 million per year, as a incentive for Kaepernick to perform and stay healthy.
I can also see some incentives thrown in there, as well as workout bonuses possibly in the $100,000 range. Incentives would likely be for touchdowns thrown, ran, and rushing and passing yardage.
Now, it's time to sit back and wait a while for a deal to happen. Due to the new CBA not allowing Kaepernick to sign a new deal until the end of 2013, until then, have fun and stay healthy Kap.
It's mailbag time again. I know you're excited. I can tell by the look in your eyes.
As always, thank you so much for submitting your questions. You are the reason the 49ers Webzone Mailbag is a fun read. So thank you for bringing your questions each week. Alright, let's jump right in to see what's on your mind.
Were there any changes made between the first two failed offensive drives and the rest? It seemed to be a major turnaround. - Frank W.
I'm sure they made some adjustments. The play-calling seemed to change a little. For example, in the first two drives, the 49ers ran one run play and five pass plays. Christian McCaffrey didn't touch the ball on either possession.
On the third drive, McCaffrey ran the ball on the first play
(Episode 293) - Brian Renick and Al Sacco discuss the remaining games of current NFC contenders, Al's gripe with NFL Twitter film guys, why Steven Ruiz is not an authority to rank quarterbacks, which stars on 49ers that are approaching milestones, game predictions for Sunday's game against Seattle, and more!
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