Andy Benoit of Sports Illustrated went as far as attempting to place odds on the 49ers quarterback competition. He feels that Gabbert is the 5:1 favorite to start the most games in 2016.
One thing that gives Gabbert an advantage is the fact that he has had a head start on his competition. Kaepernick has been extremely limited during the team's offseason program. In November, Kaepernick was placed on injured reserve due to a shoulder injury. He is recovering from multiple surgeries. While none are expected to cause long-term issues, he has had surgeries on his left shoulder, thumb, and knee since being placed on injured reserve.
Some within the media even believe, for various reasons, that the 49ers organization is pulling for Gabbert to win the starting job. Players have been commenting on Gabbert taking control of the 49ers offense and showing great leadership. Of course, it's tough to read too much into that as Kaepernick has been unable to fully participate.
KNBR-AM asked head coach Chip Kelly about the team's starting quarterback job. "We're not playing a game until September. At this point in time, it's early, and one of the players, Colin, is injured right now, so he's not been a full participant in everything," Kelly said.
"Kap's at every meeting. Kap's at rehab. Kap's at every practice, doing what he can," Kelly added. "We don't know exactly what we have until we get those guys up and running. That won't be determined until preseason camp."
Regardless, this is shaping up to being one of the top offseason stories for the 49ers. Brace yourself.
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