Veteran QB Garoppolo Emerges as Potential Dolphins Target

Former 49ers starter could provide experienced bridge option for Miami

Feb. 21, 2026 at 12:31pm by Ben Kaplan

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As the Miami Dolphins look to move on from longtime quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, veteran free agent Jimmy Garoppolo has emerged as a potential target to provide an experienced bridge option at the position. Garoppolo, who spent the last two seasons as Matthew Stafford's backup with the Los Angeles Rams, has a strong connection to new Dolphins offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik from their time together in San Francisco. While Malik Willis has been widely discussed as a top target, Garoppolo could offer a more proven and cost-effective option for Miami as they look to build out their quarterback room.

Why it matters

The Dolphins are in need of a long-term solution at quarterback, but with a lack of top prospects in the 2026 draft, a veteran bridge option like Garoppolo could make sense. His familiarity with the Dolphins' new offensive coordinator and his past success as a starter in San Francisco add to his appeal as Miami looks to create competition and upgrade the position.

The details

Garoppolo, a former second-round pick of the New England Patriots, spent the last six seasons as the starting quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers. During that time, he led the team to a Super Bowl appearance in 2019 and posted a career passer rating of 97.6, which ranks 9th best in NFL history. After being traded to the Rams in 2024, Garoppolo has served primarily as a backup the last two seasons, but could be looking for an opportunity to compete for a starting job again.

  • Garoppolo's contract with the Rams is set to expire on March 11, 2026, making him an unrestricted free agent.
  • The Dolphins are expected to move on from current starter Tua Tagovailoa this offseason.

The players

Jimmy Garoppolo

A 12-year NFL veteran quarterback who has spent the last two seasons as the backup to Matthew Stafford with the Los Angeles Rams.

Tua Tagovailoa

The Miami Dolphins' starting quarterback since 2020, who is expected to be moved on from this offseason.

Bobby Slowik

The new offensive coordinator for the Miami Dolphins, who previously worked with Garoppolo as part of the San Francisco 49ers coaching staff.

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What’s next

The Dolphins will need to determine their quarterback plans for the 2026 season in the coming weeks, as free agency opens on March 11. If they decide to pursue Garoppolo, they will likely need to move quickly to secure his services before other teams have a chance to make an offer.

The takeaway

With a lack of top quarterback prospects in the 2026 draft, the Dolphins may need to get creative in their search for a long-term solution at the position. Bringing in a veteran like Garoppolo, who has familiarity with the new coaching staff, could provide a steady bridge option as the team continues to develop younger talents like Quinn Ewers and Cam Miller.