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San Francisco 49ers still trying to find a taker for QB Colin Kaepernick

By The Sports Xchange
San Francisco 49ers' Colin Kaepernick watches starting QB Garrett Celek defeat the Atlanta Falcons from the sidelines in the second quarter at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California on November 8, 2015. Photo by Terry Schmitt/UPI
1 of 3 | San Francisco 49ers' Colin Kaepernick watches starting QB Garrett Celek defeat the Atlanta Falcons from the sidelines in the second quarter at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California on November 8, 2015. Photo by Terry Schmitt/UPI | License Photo

San Francisco 49ers general manager Trent Baalke said Tuesday the team has had discussions about trading quarterback Colin Kaepernick but haven't come close to completing a deal.

Speculation has pinpointed the Cleveland Browns, Denver Broncos and New York Jets as interested parties, though Cleveland and Denver appear to have backed off in their interest.

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Speaking at the annual NFL owners meetings at Boca Raton, Fla., Baalke said he engaged in discussions with several teams.

"And it's gone no further than that," Baalke told reporters. "We're nowhere near getting anything done at this point."

Hampering the situation is that Kaepernick recently underwent surgeries on his left shoulder, right thumb and left knee.

If Kaepernick is on San Francisco's roster on April 1, a clause kicks in that guarantees $11.9 million of his 2016 contract.

Kaepernick also recently requested a trade and the 49ers have tried to oblige.

"Because I think sometimes it helps players ... it gives them a chance to see what their options really are," Baalke said about honoring the request. "And it also gives us a chance to say, 'We didn't hold you back from doing anything. This is new for everybody.'

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"Obviously, (new coach Chip) Kelly would love to work with him, and feels he could fit into the system that coach has, and go to work. I think that's the main purpose of it."

The 49ers also officially announced the signing of guard Zane Beadles to a three-year contract. The deal is worth $11.75 million, according to published reports.

"Zane is a talented, intelligent player who will be a wonderful addition to our locker room and the Bay Area community," Baalke said. "His durability has been a valuable asset throughout his first six NFL seasons and his athleticism makes him a great fit to play in the up-tempo style of offense we intend to play."

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