Why Isn't Kaepernick Signed Yet?

            Many people are surprised that Colin Kaepernick is still unsigned going into the middle of August. The quarterback had adequate stats as a backup for the 49ers last season, throwing for 2,241 yards, 16 touchdowns, and four interceptions in twelve games. He did fumble the ball seven times, however. Still, Kaepernick could make for a decent backup in the NFL.
            So why is Kaepernick still unsigned? Part of it is the fact that he isn't a top-tier quarterback. Yes, I just said that he has adequate stats. However, those are stats for a backup. He's also completed 59.8% of his passes in his career. He did run for 468 yards last season, making him a decent dual-threat quarterback.
            Another part of the equation is the NFL owners. However, it's not for the reason that you think. There have been plenty of coaches and players who would want Kaepernick on their team or are surprised he's still unsigned, ranging from Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh to Richard Sherman. Still, there are owners like Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti who are reluctant to take him on.
            There is a reason behind this. No, it's not that the owners are "racist", are "forming a coalition against Kaepernick", or are "bigoted". Many NFL owners fear the reaction from their fanbase and how they'll react if Kaepernick signs with their team. If you want a perfect example, take a look at when the 49ers visited Buffalo last season. NFL fans aren't exactly the most tame when it comes to their sport. Like the sport itself, NFL fans can be barbaric.
            Were Kaepernick's actions and views last season controversial? Absolutely. It added fuel to the fire of the "Black Lives Matter" debate and many other political issues. Did his actions have consequences? Absolutely. That's a part of why he's currently unemployed in the NFL.