Kaepernick pitches NFL teams after exhibition: 'I can help you win'

Colin Kaepernick delivered a message to NFL teams following his throwing exhibition at Michigan's spring game Saturday.

The free-agent quarterback said he believes he still has what it takes to help any potential interested suitors and is willing to work his way up to a starting job.

"I can help make you a better team. I can help you win games," Kaepernick told Jeanna Trotman of WXYZ Detroit. "I know right now the situation likely won't allow me to come in (and) step into a starting role. I know I'll be able to work my way to that, though."

He added: "To the teams that have questions, more than anything I would say, 'I'd love to come in for a workout, I'd love to sit down with you and have that conversation about how I can help you be a better team.'"

Kaepernick has been out of football since 2016. He became the first NFL player to kneel during national anthems to protest police brutality and racial inequality in the United States.

Kaepernick explained that the goal of Saturday's throwing session was to show teams he can still play and throw the football effectively in the NFL.

The 34-year-old signal-caller embraced Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh following the throwing session. Harbaugh selected Kaepernick with his second pick as head coach of the San Francisco 49ers in 2011. The duo enjoyed early success by reaching the Super Bowl during the 2012 campaign, though the pair was defeated by the Baltimore Ravens.

"He's always been phenomenal for me. From the time we met at the combine, my pro day, to him drafting me and choosing to start me," Kaepernick said. "And from there, our relationship continues to grow and develop. Phenomenal person, phenomenal man, a lot of love for coach Harbaugh."

Kaepernick threw for 72 touchdowns to 30 interceptions during his time with the 49ers. He also added 2,300 yards on the ground and 13 rushing scores.