Las Vegas Raiders Release Their Quarterback: A Major Shakeup in Sin City
The Las Vegas Raiders have officially released quarterback, marking a significant move as the franchise restructures its roster ahead of the 2025 season. This decision comes after a disappointing year for him, who struggled with injuries and inconsistency during his brief tenure with the team.
Garoppolo joined the Raiders in the 2023 offseason, signing a three-year, $72.75 million contract with the expectation that he would stabilize the quarterback position. However, injuries derailed his season, and his on-field performances failed to meet expectations. In just seven games as a starter, Garoppolo threw for 1,205 yards, seven touchdowns, and nine interceptions before being benched in favor of rookie Aidan O’Connell.
With the emergence of O’Connell and the Raiders’ search for a long-term franchise quarterback, Garoppolo’s future with the team became uncertain. His release, which came on March 13, 2024, was widely anticipated, allowing the Raiders to move forward while freeing up salary cap space.
The Raiders’ decision to release Garoppolo signals a shift in their quarterback strategy. Shortly after his release, the team acquired veteran quarterback Geno Smith from the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a third-round draft pick. Smith, who had a career resurgence in Seattle, is expected to compete for the starting job alongside O’Connell.
Additionally, the hiring of head coach Pete Carroll in early 2025 suggests a new direction for the franchise. Carroll, known for his success with the Seahawks, may look to implement a fresh offensive approach that better suits his quarterbacks.
Despite his struggles with the Raiders, Garoppolo remains a viable option for teams in need of an experienced quarterback. Shortly after his release, he signed a one-year contract with the Los Angeles Rams to serve as Matthew Stafford’s backup. However, his role in the 2024 season was limited. Now a free agent once again, Garoppolo is reportedly exploring opportunities for the 2025 season.
Teams in need of a veteran presence, such as the New England Patriots or Minnesota Vikings, could consider Garoppolo as a potential bridge quarterback or backup option. However, his injury history may limit his market value.
The release of Jimmy Garoppolo marks another chapter in the Raiders’ ongoing search for quarterback stability. With Geno Smith in the mix and Aidan O’Connell continuing to develop, the team hopes to turn the page on recent struggles and build a competitive roster moving forward.
As for , his future remains uncertain, but given his experience and past success, he could still find a role in the NFL. Whether as a backup or a short-term starter, his journey is far from over.
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