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Report: Bucs didn't consider Kaepernick before signing Fitzpatrick as backup

Kelley L Cox / USA TODAY Sports

Ryan Fitzpatrick signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Friday, becoming the team's primary backup to Jameis Winston.

However, Fitzpatrick was arguably not the best option available following a poor 2016 season. Some would contend that free agent Colin Kaepernick is the superior player, and would be a better option if Winston were to go down with an injury.

The Bucs disagree with that assumption, as Tampa Bay didn't consider Kaepernick before opting to add Fitzpatrick, a source told Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk.

With 12 years of experience in the NFL, Fitzpatrick could provide mentorship to Winston, and offers no challenge to the fourth-year pivot's position as the starter.

However, Fitzpatrick finished last season with a 69.6 passer rating in 14 appearances, throwing 12 touchdowns to 17 interceptions. Kaepernick, meanwhile, had 16 touchdowns to four picks and a 90.7 passer rating.

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