Report: Kaepernick open to staying with 49ers

Colin Kaepernick won't necessarily be playing elsewhere next season.

The San Francisco 49ers quarterback, who has the ability to opt out of his contract ahead of free agency, is open to returning to the team in 2017, Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee reports.

Kaepernick and the 49ers finding a way to continue their relationship, be it under the current contract or a new deal worked out after an opt-out, would at least temporarily bring some clarity to the quarterback situation.

And while a rookie could certainly be targeted atop the draft, new head coach Kyle Shanahan getting the most out of Kaepernick's talents may provide a temporary starting option.

Perhaps indicating the team's willingness to explore a solution, general manager John Lynch indicated at Shanahan's introductory press conference that a meeting with Kaepernick is already scheduled.

"The first order of business is Kyle and I both really attacking it and seeing what we have here, and we'll do that with his situation," Lynch said. "We'll sit down with him, and if we see fit that he's a part of it, we'll commit to that. If not, we'll figure things out."

Barrows, citing multiple sources, also adds that Kaepernick is in the process of parting ways with his representation.

The 29-year-old started 11 of his 12 appearances this past season, connecting on 59.2 percent of passes for 2,241 yards, 16 touchdowns, and four interceptions.