Jimmy Garoppolo retirement may affect Rams backup QB plans

Jimmy Garoppolo might retire. This is a change from him being a top choice for the Rams' backup quarterback job.
By Newsroom | NFL, Los Angeles Rams |

Quarterback Considers Retirement, Leaving Rams' Backup Plans Adrift

Free agent quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, 34, is contemplating retirement from the NFL, according to reports from NFL Network on Monday. This potential decision arrives as Garoppolo remains unsigned, despite previously being considered a prime candidate to return as Matthew Stafford's backup for the Los Angeles Rams.

Garoppolo's consideration of retirement creates a significant void in the Rams' immediate plans for their backup quarterback position. This uncertainty forces the team to confront potential solutions, particularly with the NFL Draft looming.

Rams' Backup Situation Unsettled

The Los Angeles Rams appear to be in a precarious position regarding their backup quarterback depth. While they retain Matthew Stafford, his well-documented injury history elevates the importance of a reliable backup.

  • Garoppolo was reportedly a top option for the Rams to fill this role.

  • The team publicly considered other quarterbacks, including Kirk Cousins, who has since signed with the Las Vegas Raiders.

  • With Garoppolo now pondering retirement, the Rams are effectively back to square one in their search for a backup.

  • Currently, the Rams' roster lists only Stetson Bennett as a backup quarterback option.

Draft Considerations Intensify

Garoppolo's potential retirement is likely to amplify the Rams' focus on acquiring a quarterback through the upcoming NFL Draft.

  • Sources indicate that the Rams are now almost certain to select a quarterback in the draft.

  • The team might consider drafting a long-term successor for the 38-year-old Stafford.

  • Potential draft targets mentioned include players like Garrett Nussmeier, Drew Allar, and Carson Beck, who could be viewed as developmental prospects.

A Surprising Crossroads

Despite Garoppolo's 12-year career and 64 career starts with franchises including the New England Patriots, San Francisco 49ers, Las Vegas Raiders, and the Rams, he appears to be at a crossroads. Reports suggest there was still demand for his services as a backup, making his contemplation of retirement a surprising development.

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His time with the Rams saw him complete 27 of 41 passes for 334 yards, with two touchdowns and one interception in a previous outing. The specifics of his timeline for making a final decision remain undisclosed. The NFL offseason has been active for the Rams, who recently acquired cornerback Trent McDuffie from the Kansas City Chiefs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Jimmy Garoppolo thinking about retiring?
Jimmy Garoppolo, 34, is thinking about ending his NFL career. He is currently a free agent and has not signed with a team.
Q: How does Garoppolo's possible retirement affect the Los Angeles Rams?
The Rams were looking at Garoppolo to be their backup quarterback. His decision makes their search for a backup harder, especially with Matthew Stafford's injury history.
Q: What are the Rams' other options for a backup quarterback?
With Garoppolo possibly retiring, the Rams might look to the NFL Draft to find a new quarterback. They currently only have Stetson Bennett listed as a backup.
Q: Was there still interest in Jimmy Garoppolo as a player?
Yes, reports suggest teams were still interested in him as a backup. His choice to think about retirement is seen as a surprise development in the NFL offseason.