In a bold statement amid the Kansas City Chiefs’ quarterback crisis, prominent sports commentator Jemele Hill has argued that bringing in Colin Kaepernick could provide significant benefits to the struggling franchise. With star quarterback Patrick Mahomes sidelined for the remainder of the 2025 season due to a torn ACL and LCL in his left knee, and backup Gardner Minshew also dealing with a knee injury, the Chiefs are turning to inexperienced options like Chris Oladokun. Hill’s suggestion highlights Kaepernick as a potential solution, emphasizing his proven track record and remarkable durability.

Kaepernick, now 38, hasn’t played in the NFL since the 2016 season with the San Francisco 49ers. However, he remains a polarizing figure known for leading the 49ers to Super Bowl XLVII and an NFC Championship appearance. His dual-threat style—combining strong arm talent with elite mobility—made him one of the league’s most dynamic quarterbacks during his prime. Hill points out a key advantage: throughout his NFL career, Kaepernick never missed games due to major injuries that sidelined him long-term in a way that derailed his playing time. While he dealt with some setbacks, such as shoulder surgery in 2015 and other minor issues, he consistently suited up when healthy, showcasing reliability that many modern quarterbacks lack amid the physical demands of the position.

The Chiefs’ current predicament underscores the urgency. Mahomes suffered his devastating injury in Week 15 against the Chargers, ending a disappointing 2025 campaign that saw Kansas City miss the playoffs for the first time since 2014. The team has struggled with depth at quarterback, and the loss of both Mahomes and Minshew has exposed vulnerabilities in an offense that once dominated the league. Adding a veteran like Kaepernick could offer immediate experience, leadership, and a spark—particularly his rushing ability, which could complement Kansas City’s playmakers like Travis Kelce and Isaiah Pacheco.

Critics might question Kaepernick’s long hiatus from competitive football, but his workouts and public demonstrations over the years suggest he has maintained his physical conditioning. At a time when teams often scramble for backup options during injury waves, his availability represents an intriguing low-risk opportunity. Hill’s advocacy revives ongoing debates about Kaepernick’s exile from the NFL, often attributed to his national anthem protests against racial injustice starting in 2016.

Whether the Chiefs pursue this idea remains uncertain, but the conversation raises valid points about roster depth and second chances in professional sports. In a league where quarterback health can define a season, Kaepernick’s potential addition could indeed bolster Kansas City’s prospects—not just for the final games of 2025, but as insurance moving forward. As the team navigates this challenging period, Hill’s perspective invites fans and analysts to reconsider what a proven, durable signal-caller could bring to a franchise in need.