Full Breakdown
Jimmy Garoppolo Considers Retirement After 12 NFL Seasons
4/21/2026, 12:14:46 AM
Overview of Garoppolo's Career
Jimmy Garoppolo, a 34-year-old free-agent quarterback, is reportedly contemplating retirement after a 12-season career in the NFL. Drafted by the New England Patriots in 2014, Garoppolo served as a backup to Tom Brady before being traded to the San Francisco 49ers in 2017. He later played for the Las Vegas Raiders and the Los Angeles Rams, where he has spent the last two seasons as a backup to Matthew Stafford. Throughout his career, Garoppolo has played in 85 games, recording 15,828 passing yards, 96 touchdowns, and 52 interceptions, with a completion rate of 67.4%.
Current Situation and Options
As of April 20, 2026, Garoppolo is weighing his options, which include the possibility of retirement. Reports indicate that he has not yet signed with any team, despite interest from the Rams, who view him as their top option for the backup quarterback position. The Rams had also considered Kirk Cousins for this role, but he has since signed with the Raiders. Additionally, contract negotiations with the Arizona Cardinals fell through, leading them to sign Gardner Minshew instead.
Garoppolo's limited playing time in recent seasons—he appeared in only three games during the 2025 season without attempting a pass—has contributed to his decision-making process. His most notable performance came in the 2024 regular-season finale, where he threw for 334 yards and two touchdowns.
Implications of Retirement
If Garoppolo decides to retire, it could significantly impact the Rams' quarterback depth, as they currently have only Stafford and Stetson Bennett on their roster. The team may need to explore other options in free agency or the draft to fill the backup position. Potential candidates include Spencer Rattler from the New Orleans Saints and Anthony Richardson, a former first-round pick from the Indianapolis Colts.
Criticism & Opposition
Some analysts speculate that Garoppolo's retirement consideration may be a negotiation tactic, as he could be seeking a more favorable contract from the Rams. Given his history of injuries and the challenges of transitioning from a starting role to a backup position, there are differing opinions on whether he should continue his career or step away.
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach Sean McVay of the Rams has publicly expressed interest in retaining Garoppolo, indicating that the team values his experience. However, the lack of a finalized contract suggests uncertainty about his future in the league.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Jimmy G, who has started 64 games during a 12-year career, has made over $156M in all. He is 34 and is mulling a final decision.” — Ian Rapoport, NFL Network
- “com reported earlier in April, "Garoppolo is still available, and I think, at this stage of his career, the likelihood is that he'll find a place as a high-end backup.” — Albert Breer, SI.com
What's Next
Garoppolo's decision regarding retirement is expected to unfold before the start of the 2026 NFL season. As teams finalize their rosters, the outcome of his deliberations will influence the quarterback landscape in the league.
