The quarterback, who hasn't played in the NFL in almost six years, has another chance to return to the league in Las Vegas.

It was recently revealed that former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick would have a chance to show up with the Las Vegas Raiders, sparking a flurry of talk about a possible return to the NFL.

The graduate from the University of Nevada played six seasons with the Niners, from 2011 to 2016, reaching a Super Bowl and constantly appearing in the playoffs. However, it's almost six years since he stepped on the grid due to the controversy that arose when he began to kneel during the United States national anthem in protest.

Given this new opportunity that Kaepernick has to return to the best sports league in the world, it is an excellent time to analyze if his possible hiring would help the Raiders.

The Las Vegas team fully trusts its starting quarterback, Derek Carr, because, in addition to extending his contract for three more years last April, they incorporated the brand new wide receiver, Davante Adams, providing him with the best weapons to have a great season.

So the Raiders wouldn't sign Kaepernick to create competition or put pressure on the Car. Even the former San Francisco quarterback mentioned during the "I Am Athlete" podcast that he's looking for an opportunity to be a

backup on some team, which would open up the doors to be a starter again. Still, his primary mission is to get a chance.

Colin Kaepernick was given a chance to audition with the Las Vegas Raiders after six years out of the NFL. AP Photo

"I see I have to meet my way around, so if I have to come back as a substitute, that's fine. I need that opportunity," he said during the interview.

The backup the Raiders need The Raiders to have a dependable quarterback in Derek Carr, but who's behind him when he gets hurt or needs to be rested? The replacements are Nick Mullens and Jarrett Stidham, two players who have failed to shine in the NFL.

For much of his career, Mullens was the replacement for Jimmy Garoppolo in San Francisco. Due to the quarterback's injuries in 2018 and 2020, he was able to have games on his record, totaling 4,861 yards and 25 touchdowns during his tenure with the 49ers. From then on, he has not been able to have more activity.

For his part, Stidham seemed destined to be Tom Brady's replacement on the New England Patriots, but this did not happen, as Bill Belichick preferred to bet on Cam Newton in the 2020 season than to give the Auburn graduate a chance. Back surgery relegated him even further the following year, as the head coach already had Mac Jones as his ideal quarterback.

So having Kaepernick as Carr's backup would build confidence in the team and the fans, especially given the difficulty in the AFC West, where they have high-caliber rivals like the Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Chargers, and now the Denver Broncos under Russell Wilson.