Jimmy Garoppolo, former San Francisco 49ers quarterback, smiling during a post-game news conference following an NFL football match against the Seattle Seahawks on December 29, 2019, in Seattle. (Photo by Stephen Brashear, courtesy of AP)
The Los Angeles Rams are signing quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo to a one-year deal, according to a report from ESPN.
Garoppolo’s Departure and Suspension
Garoppolo’s departure from the Las Vegas Raiders comes just a season after he joined the team on a significant three-year, $72.75 million deal.
However, he faces a setback as he is suspended for the first two games of the 2024 season due to a violation of the NFL’s performance-enhancing drug policy. Per ESPN’s report, the violation stems from Garoppolo’s use of prescribed medication without a valid therapeutic use exemption from the NFL.
Importance of Backup QBs for the Rams
Last season, the Rams learned the value of having a backup quarterback when Stafford injured his thumb and missed a game against the Green Bay Packers in Week 9. Without Stafford, and with Brett Rypien starting instead, the Rams only scored three points in a loss.
During his press conference at the end of the season in January, Rams GM Les Snead talked about that loss and how it almost made them miss the playoffs. He stressed the need for a backup quarterback who can step up and win games when needed.
Rams’ Quarterback Investment Strategy
Over the past two seasons, the Rams have invested in high draft picks for their backup quarterback position, including Baker Mayfield in 2022, Carson Wentz in 2023, and now Garoppolo.
Although the Rams initially drafted quarterback Stetson Bennett as Stafford’s backup, he missed the entire 2023 season due to a non-football illness. Head coach Sean McVay said in January that it’s uncertain whether Bennett will continue with the team next season.
Garoppolo’s Challenges and Stats
When Garoppolo joined the Raiders, he needed surgery on his left foot before his contract could become valid. Despite facing challenges such as a concussion and a back injury, he ended last season with 1,205 passing yards, 7 touchdown passes, and 9 interceptions.
Garoppolo had a tough season, with his completion percentage at 65.1, his passer rating at 77.7, and his QBR at 34.2, all marking career lows for seasons.
Garoppolo’s Career Highlights
Garoppolo, 32, spent the previous six seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, leading them to two NFC Championship Game appearances. During his tenure with the 49ers, acquired in a 2017 trade with the New England Patriots, Garoppolo threw for 13,599 yards with 82 touchdowns and 42 interceptions.
He began his career with the Patriots, who drafted him in the second round of the 2014 draft to serve as the backup to Tom Brady.
