It would've seemed that San Francisco 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh would've jumped at the chance to talk about anyone but himself and his future with the NFL franchise.

But the subject was polarizing quarterback Colin Kaepernick, and Harbaugh wouldn't bite.

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The Santa Rosa Press Democrat reported Tuesday that the 49ers coach was asked what the reporter admitted to be a loaded question on Kaepernick. Rather than ask whether Harbaugh thought his starting signal-caller was an elite quarterback, the reporter instead asked what Harbaugh thought Kaepernick needed to become an elite quarterback.

Harbaugh could've said he thinks Kaepernick is an elite quarterback; except he didn't.

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"A lot of people inquire about that," Harbaugh said. "Some pontificate on the subject. For us, we're living in the moment. That's the great thing about being human beings. You're always in the moment and, for us, that's preparing to play the Washington Redskins. That's trying to improve, build, build, build our football team and get stronger in all areas. That's what we concern ourselves with."

Said the reporter, "I've had a lot of people not answer questions of mine but that was one of the best you just did. It was clever and philosophical."

Harbaugh responded: "I have a hard time even spelling philosophical. I wasn't trying to be that. I was just being honest."

Unfortunately, the reporter did not respond with a follow-up asking Harbaugh what he thought Tom Brady or Peyton Manning needed to improve upon to become an elite quarterback. If Harbaugh had bitten on that question, then at least the reporter would have confirmed that Harbaugh was avoiding having to answer for Kaepernick.

The 27-year-old University Nevada alum took the Niners to the Super Bowl two years ago and to the NFC Championship Game last season, but has been criticized this season for his inconsistency.

Do you think Colin Kaepernick is an elite quarterback? Comment below or tell us @SportsWN