49ers quarterback Kaepernick wishes Smith well.
Following the news that Alex Smith has been traded from the San Francisco 49ers to the Kansas City Chiefs, former team-mate Colin Kaepernick is confident he will be a success.
Kaepernick emerged from prospect to starter for the 49ers last year, when he was called in to action after Smith sustained a concussion mid-way through the season.
Having stepped in to replace him, Kaepernick excelled through the playoffs before ultimately coming up short in New Orleans against the Baltimore Ravens.
It appears he did enough to persuade the 49ers and coach Jim Harbaugh that he is now their future, after Smith made the switch to the Chiefs.
Speaking to the NFL network, Kaepernick was full of praise for his former team-mate:
“Of course, nothing can be finalized yet. Whether Alex is with us or he’s somewhere else next season, he’s been a great team-mate to me,” he told Amber Theoharis.
“He’s been a great friend, a great mentor. So anywhere he goes, or if he’s still with us, he’s gonna be successful.”
Kaepernick went on to reveal that Smith taught him a great deal during their time together, and had definitely made an impact on his efforts to improve his game.
It was also revealed earlier this month that the 25-year-old Milwaukee native had already returned to training, preparing himself for the season ahead.
The trade appears to suit both players perfectly, considering Smith is provided with a fresh start to become the starter in Kansas, while Kaepernick has effectively now been given the mantle of leading the 49ers forward.
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