Former 49ers $137M Star Faces Trouble…
Former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo faces significant repercussions from the NFL following the season, potentially jeopardizing his future employment.
Garoppolo, now with the Las Vegas Raiders, has violated the NFL’s Performance Enhancing Substances Policy, resulting in a two-game suspension for the upcoming season. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported on Friday that the Raiders are likely to release Garoppolo in response to the violation.
The violation is related to Garoppolo’s use of a prescribed medication without a valid Therapeutic Use Exemption, as initially disclosed by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Garoppolo, who previously played for the 49ers from 2018 to 2022, signed a lucrative deal with the Raiders in 2023 after departing San Francisco in free agency.
During his tenure with the 49ers, Garoppolo played a significant role, amassing impressive statistics and guiding the team to notable achievements, including a Super Bowl appearance in 2019 and an NFC Championship Game appearance in 2021. However, his departure from the 49ers was precipitated by the emergence of Trey Lance, drafted by San Francisco as the No. 3 pick in 2021.
Despite a brief return to the starting lineup following Lance’s injury, Garoppolo’s own injury struggles led to his eventual replacement by Brock Purdy. The 49ers subsequently turned to Purdy, leading to Garoppolo’s departure in free agency and the trade of Lance to the Dallas Cowboys.
Garoppolo’s release by the Raiders means he will forfeit significant guaranteed money from his contract. While his future destination remains uncertain, potential suitors include quarterback-needy teams willing to overlook the suspension. Garoppolo is expected to face a substantial pay cut and could find opportunities with teams like the New York Jets, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, and Minnesota Vikings, among others.
Despite the setback, Garoppolo will be eligible to participate in offseason activities and training camp with any new team he signs with, although he will be barred from participating in regular-season games for the first two weeks due to his suspension.
