Overview
- NFL Network insider Mike Garafolo reported Wednesday that Garoppolo decided not to retire and is open to returning in 2026 for the right situation.
- Garafolo said there is no imminent signing and that a team will likely add Garoppolo only if a starter is injured or a backup competition forces a change.
- Los Angeles looked like a possible landing spot but the Rams’ first-round pick Ty Simpson has reduced the likelihood of a reunion with Garoppolo.
- Teams needing an experienced short-term starter or a trustworthy veteran backup — contenders such as the Jets, Chargers, Broncos and others named by analysts — could consider him later in camp or during the season.
- Garoppolo is a 12-season veteran with 64 career starts, about 15,800 passing yards and a 4-2 record as a playoff starter, which makes him a credible emergency option and a stabilizing presence if a club’s QB room is suddenly depleted.