Panthers Sign Eric Reid; Odds Still Against Kaepernick Rejoining NFL

• Reid was first NFL player to join Kaepernick in anthem protests
• Pro Bowl safety had gone unsigned after becoming free agent last winter
• Kaepernick has not seen NFL action since opting out of contract following 2016 season

Eric Reid’s brief exile from the NFL came to an end earlier this week, when the Carolina Panthers signed the Pro Bowl safety to a one-year contract that could earn him up to $2 million this season.

It’s a 1-year deal for the #Panthers and S Eric Reid, I’m told. A football decision, with the best safety available. This has been in the works since Tuesday, and he’s in the building now meeting with coaches.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 27, 2018

Reid gained notoriety for becoming the first NFL player to join former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick in his sideline protests of the national anthem during the 2016 NFL season, and filed a grievance with the league after going unsigned as a free agent during the recent offseason.

The former All-American’s deal with Carolina has been welcomed by NFL fans and players who supported his gestures of protest.

However, it has failed to improve the odds of Kaepernick returning to the gridiron, with the outspoken pivot pegged as a short -280 bet to stay off the field.

What Team Will Kaepernick Play For in 2018?

Kaepernick has been without an NFL job since opting out of his contract following the 2016 season.

The 30-year-old subsequently took the league to court, accusing team owners of colluding to keep him out of the league, a move which has further enhanced the likelihood of sports bettors making easy money by betting against his return.

Colin Kaepernick picked up a big win in his collusion grievance on Thursday, what fallout does @McCannSportsLaw expect regarding a possible trial with the NFL? https://t.co/DJfnZT7Ddp

— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) August 31, 2018

Has Reid’s Signing Opened the Door for Kaepernick’s Return?

However, with Reid’s return to action, and several NFL teams in need of help under center, the door may be slightly open for Kaepernick to return to action.

After Jimmy Garoppolo went down in Week 3, it left many wondering whether Kaepernick could be heading back to San Francisco. But the 49ers quickly closed that door.

The Oakland Raiders currently lead the way as the team with the best odds of signing Kaepernick, pegged at +650, just ahead of the Cleveland Browns at +700, and the New England Patriots at +750.

The Raiders are off to a dismal 0-3 start , and have lost seven straight overall, while averaging a meager 14.85 points per game during that stretch.

Quarterback Derek Carr has produced uneven numbers over the first three weeks, completing 76.6% of his pass attempts, but has tossed just two scoring passes against five picks.

Emergence of Mayfield Diminishes Browns’ Odds

Conversely, the Browns believe they have found a solution to their long-term problems under center with the arrival of rookie Baker Mayfield.

The reigning Heisman Trophy winner impressed in his NFL debut in Week 3, leading the Browns to a 21-17 comeback victory over the New York Jets, a performance that vaulted him to the top of the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year odds.

While Kaepernick could be a good fit backing up Tom Brady in New England, a greater opportunity may lie with the Denver Broncos, who sport +950 odds of taking a chance on him this season.

Keenum Enduring Early-Season Struggles in Denver

Denver has opened the season on a 2-1 run, but recently signed quarterback Case Keenum has increasingly struggled in the early going.

The 30-year-old threw for three touchdowns in a season-opening 27-24 win over Seattle as 3-point chalk, but has failed to connect in the end zone in his past two while racking up five interceptions on the season.

In addition, Keenum is reportedly battling knee soreness resulting from an injury suffered in the team’s narrow 20-19 win over the Raiders in Week 2.

Buffalo an Unlikely Destination Following Allen’s Impressive Debut

The Broncos are joined at +950 by the Buffalo Bills. Considered a good fit for Kaepernick at the beginning of the season, Buffalo is expected to run with rookie passer Josh Allen, who turned in a strong performance  in last week’s’ stunning 27-6 upset win over Minnesota as 16.6-point underdogs.