Colin Kaepernick remains unemployed.
And Panthers quarterback Cam Newton offered support for the former 49ers signal-caller on Tuesday.
"I really think it's unfair. I think it's unfair," Newton told reporters. "Not to take any storm or glory away from this game -- we're trying to find every way to be prepared for the 49ers come Sunday.
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"But in my opinion, do I think Kaepernick is better than some of these starting quarterbacks in this league? Absolutely. Should he be on a roster? Absolutely. There's no question about it."
Newton was selected No. 1 overall in 2011.
Kaepernick was selected No. 36 overall in 2011.
In January 2014, Kaepernick's 49ers beat Newton's Panthers in the divisional round of the playoffs, 23-10.
San Francisco 49ers
Kaepernick completed 15 of 28 passes for 196 yards and a touchdown, and ran for another score.
Newton went 16 for 25 for 267 yards (plus 54 rushing yards) and a touchdown, but threw two interceptions.
Newton won the MVP in 2015 and led the Panthers to a Super Bowl appearance.
Before he concluded his press conference, Newton made sure he was very clear about his feelings regarding Kaepernick's ability.
"Is he good enough to be on a roster? Is he good enough to be a starting quarterback? Absolutely."