Last offseason, the Las Vegas Raiders signed Jimmy Garoppolo with hopes that the experienced quarterback would recover from his foot injury and effectively fill in for Derek Carr if needed. However, Garoppolo’s performance turned out to be the opposite of what was expected.
He frequently made costly turnovers, and some argue that he never fully recovered physically or mentally from his injury last season. In the first eight games of the season, Garoppolo’s mistakes directly contributed to losses for the Raiders. His failure to minimize turnovers and generate downfield opportunities severely impacted the team’s offensive effectiveness throughout the season.
Adding to the challenge, as reported by NFL Insider Albert Breer, certain behaviors of Garoppolo off the field, which the Raiders had hoped would change, persisted. Breer notes that some of the same characteristics that contributed to Garoppolo’s difficulties with the San Francisco 49ers carried over even after he joined the Raiders. “Garoppolo was known for being somewhat distant in San Francisco, a trait that would frustrate meticulous coach Kyle Shanahan,” Breer mentioned. “This was especially evident during certain offseason periods when the Niners had difficulty reaching him.”
“Some of those issues persisted in Vegas, where a team familiar with him, led by Dave Ziegler and coach Josh McDaniels, had anticipated that he would overcome some of those habits.”
While Garoppolo may receive another opportunity with a new team due to his struggles this season and in the offseason, Breer remains uncertain about his future.
“That’s why I’m uncertain if he truly fits as a backup,” remarked Breer. “Your backup quarterback needs to be focused and in good health. Given his reputation and track record in both of these aspects, there would understandably be concerns.”
Regarding upcoming NFL events, the NFL Scouting Combine is scheduled to take place from February 27 to March 4, 2024, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. The NFL Draft is set to occur in Detroit, Michigan, from April 25 to April 27, 2024. As of now, the Las Vegas Raiders hold the No. 13 overall pick.
