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The Washington Football Team is expected to make a bold move at quarterback this offseason. Acquiring Aaron Rodgers is a pipe dream for not only Washington but likely the rest of the league, too.
Even if Rodgers stays in Green Bay, other veteran passers could be on the move. Seattle superstar Russell Wilson would be a home run for Washington if the Seahawks moved on from him. Then there is Derek Carr of the Raiders. Washington would likely be interested in Carr if Las Vegas chooses to go in a different direction.
Then, there is always Deshaun Watson, which is also doubtful for different reasons.
So, if Washington strikes out on all of the top potential options, is there another veteran who could start in 2022?
Absolutely, and his name is Jimmy Garoppolo. According to a recent ESPN article in which several league executives and insiders predict 10 bold moves this offseason, one of those moves is Washington trading for Garoppolo.
Here’s what ESPN said of Washington acquiring Garoppolo from the 49ers:
“I have some concerns about Garoppolo outside of the Kyle Shanahan offense, but Washington has some in-breaking stuff that would be similar,” the exec said. “It wouldn’t be as much of an issue if you can define throws for him.”
I don’t get the sense a return for Garoppolo would be that pricey, either. Some teams believe you shouldn’t have to give up a first-round pick for him because it’s known that San Francisco is probably ready to play Lance, thus hurting its leverage. Plus, his $24 million salary on the last year of his deal must be reworked. But Garoppolo has played well enough to garner at least a strong Day 2 pick.
This is sure to be a polarizing topic.
Is a Washington trade for Garoppolo realistic? Yes, I could see it, although I don’t necessarily believe he’s the answer. Many believe head coach Ron Rivera prefers a veteran, which would be a positive for Garoppolo. And it shouldn’t cost too much in compensation, meaning Washington should still be able to hang onto its premium draft picks.
What if Washington traded for Garoppolo and still selected a passer in the first or second round? Someone like Liberty’s Malik Willis. It would help Washington contend in 2022 and still have an eye toward the future. And, if Garoppolo plays well, that’s a good problem for Washington.
The 49ers went big on Trey Lance last April, and he’s the future in San Francisco. Garoppolo has proven in 2022; he can still play.
Garoppolo will start for someone in 2022 — and he should. Will it be in Washington? There are worse options. The problem for Washington fans is Garoppolo isn’t a splashy move. Fans are set on making a splash.
If Washington acquired Garoppolo this offseason, the quarterback position would be in solid hands for 2022.