The San Francisco 49ers have undergone the most stunning offseason in NFL history. From coaching changes to surprise retirements, the inhabitants of the Niners' facility look very different from when the team started training camp last year.
Speaking at the annual Governor's Dinner in Nevada, quarterback Colin Kaepernick took the positive approach to the alterations.
"Very excited for the season," the former Wolf Pack quarterback said, via the Nevada Appeal. "A lot of new faces in the locker room and a lot of new coaches. I think the changes are for the good."
Those changes were mostly high-profile departures, including coach Jim Harbaugh and coordinators Greg Roman and Vic Fangio, the retirements of Patrick Willis, Justin Smith, Chris Borland and Anthony Davis and the free agent defections of veterans Frank Gore and Michael Crabtree.
Many believe the 49ers will crash back to earth in the first season under new coach Jim Tomsula, but Kap is self-assured.
"I feel very confident in our team," Kaepernick said. "I feel people are writing us off, but for us, that's all right."
To be fair, what is the starting quarterback supposed to say? After a choppy offseason full of tumult, optimism is the only route players can take.
Playing in the toughest division in football won't help their cause, but if Kaepernick's confidence can blossom into a playoff run it'll make one heck of a redemption story.
The latest Around The NFL Podcast breaks down the latest news surrounding Jason Pierre-Paul's injury, as well as the Mettenberger and Watt feud. Find more Around The NFL content on NFL NOW.
