Tyrann Mathieu Weighs in on San Fran’s Quarterback Quandary

Far be it from a divisional rival to start giving his embattled opponents tips on how to handle their quarterback situation, but that is exactly what Arizona Cardinals defensive back Tyrann Mathieu has lent his voice to.

Mathieu actually praised the San Francisco 49ers for making the switch from Colin Kaepernick to Blaine Gabbert, claiming that their new starter is a better-rounded player and one they can certainly build a team around.

“Not to take anything away from Kaepernick, but it seems like Gabbert has a little bit better grip on what’s going on,” Mathieu told reporters on Wednesday. “If he gets in a situation, he knows where the ball needs to go. He’s a hell of a passer. I think he gives them a better option going forward.”

Now, it might sound unfairly critical for an individual outside the team to weigh in on a matter like this, but the truth is, very few players either outside, or even within the 49ers franchise, have been able to key in on Kap quite like the “Honey Badger.”

In their last meeting, Mathieu picked off Kaepernick twice, making for a miserable afternoon for Kap in Glendale as the Niners were trounced in a 47-7 drubbing. Mathieu’s performance earned him NFC Player of the Week honors, which he later attributed to San Fran’s “predictable” offensive scheme.

“We just knew Kaepernick’s tendencies,” Mathieu affirmed, also adding that he has yet to reach the same level of familiarity with Gabbert’s play.

Granted, the former Jacksonville exile has played above expectations since being named the starter, but it’ll take more than two solid performances to convince Niner Nation that Gabbert is the way of the future. But Blaine or no Blaine, it’s hard to envision Colin back in the red and gold next season.