John Harbaugh considered signing Colin Kaepernick for Baltimore in 2017
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 8, 2026, 9:59 PM
Last updated Sep 8, 2026

John Harbaugh recently detailed the Baltimore Ravens' interest in signing Colin Kaepernick as a free agent in 2017. The coach noted that the organization evaluated the quarterback's talent and potential fit alongside starter Joe Flacco, ultimately disregarding the public controversy surrounding Kaepernick's anthem protests. Despite positive internal discussions and support from Jim Harbaugh, the potential signing stalled following social media activity involving team leadership. Harbaugh indicated that the organization likely would have pursued Lamar Jackson in the 2018 draft regardless of any prior roster moves involving Kaepernick. The discussions reflect a period where the Ravens looked to bolster their quarterback room following a 9-7 campaign.
- •John Harbaugh cited Kaepernick's performance against Baltimore in Super Bowl XLVII as a reason for interest.
- •Internal team conversations were not deterred by the public backlash regarding national anthem protests.
- •The potential deal stalled after a social media post involving Ray Lewis and Steve Bisciotti.
- •The organization likely would have drafted Lamar Jackson regardless of other quarterback acquisitions in 2017.
- 9:59 PMYahoo Sports — in 2017, John Harbaugh wanted Colin Kaepernick in Baltimore
"With former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick on the brink of releasing a new book, he's been talking a little more than usual as part of the promotion.
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