Jimmy Garoppolo Weighing Options After Kirk Cousins Signs with Raiders

Former 49ers QB could land with Cardinals, Packers after serving as Rams backup

Apr. 3, 2026 at 1:20pm

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting the throwing motion of a football quarterback, with sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in muted earth tones conveying the complexity and uncertainty of Garoppolo's free agency situation.Garoppolo's free agency options remain open as the veteran quarterback weighs his next move after serving as a backup the last two seasons.Los Angeles Today

With Kirk Cousins signing a one-year, $20 million deal with the Raiders, the focus has shifted to Jimmy Garoppolo's free agency. Garoppolo, who served as Matthew Stafford's backup with the Rams the last two seasons, is reportedly 'weighing a few options' as the Rams prioritize re-signing him. The former 49ers starter could land with the Cardinals or Packers, who both have needs at the quarterback position.

Why it matters

Garoppolo's free agency is significant as he is one of the top backup quarterback options available after a successful run as the 49ers' starter, including a Super Bowl appearance in 2020. His experience and track record could make him a valuable addition for teams looking to solidify their quarterback depth chart.

The details

Garoppolo made just a $1.25 million base salary and $3 million total after bonuses last season with the Rams, serving as Matthew Stafford's backup. The former second-round pick out of Eastern Illinois has a history of success, leading the 49ers to the Super Bowl in 2020, though his overthrown pass to Emmanuel Sanders on a critical third down loomed large in their defeat. With his days as a starter likely over, Garoppolo still has experience in big spots leading an offense, which could be invaluable to a team with a younger quarterback.

  • On Thursday, Kirk Cousins signed a one-year, $20 million contract with the Raiders.

The players

Jimmy Garoppolo

A former second-round pick out of Eastern Illinois who has a track record of success, including leading the 49ers to the Super Bowl in 2020, but is now likely viewed as a top backup option after serving the last two seasons as Matthew Stafford's backup with the Rams.

Kirk Cousins

The veteran quarterback who signed a one-year, $20 million contract with the Raiders on Thursday, which has shifted some focus to Garoppolo's free agency.

Matthew Stafford

The Rams' starting quarterback, with whom Garoppolo served as the backup the last two seasons.

Jordan Love

The Packers' young quarterback, who has missed time each of the last two seasons, potentially creating an opportunity for Garoppolo to land in Green Bay as the backup.

Gardner Minshew

The quarterback the Cardinals signed after reportedly being interested in Garoppolo earlier this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“Jimmy Garoppolo's free agency appears to be heating up.”

— Erich Richter, Author

“Garoppolo is 'weighing a few options,' while the Rams prioritize re-signing the former 49ers star quarterback.”

— Nate Atkins, Reporter

What’s next

It remains possible that Garoppolo opts to wait and see if there are any injuries that open up new opportunities for him during the offseason or perhaps training camp.

The takeaway

Garoppolo's free agency is an intriguing storyline as he looks to latch on with a new team after serving as a backup the last two seasons. His experience and past success could make him a valuable addition for quarterback-needy teams, though he may have to wait for the right opportunity to arise.