SANTA CLARA, Calif. _ Colin Kaepernick's national-anthem protest, vocal outcry against police and string of personal health issues did not cost him a spot on the 49ers initial, 53-man roster Saturday.
Kaepernick will have company backing up presumed starter Blaine Gabbert. But it won't be rookie Jeff Driskel, who got released. Rather, the 49ers kept Christian Ponder on the roster less than three weeks after signing him as Thad Lewis' injury replacement.
The 49ers could have Ponder suit up on game day as Gabbert's No. 2 and deactivate Kaepernick, whose $14.5 million salary in 2017 could become guaranteed if he sustains a significant injury. Kaepernick has a $125,000 bonus per game he's active this season.
Ponder, a Minnesota Vikings starter from 2011-14, did not play last season. Ponder's exhibition stats: 16-of-25 for 198 yards with one touchdown and one interception, as well as three rushing touchdowns.
.png?w=600)
