The NFL is quickly approaching the 2026 NFL Draft. Teams have finalized their draft boards after a busy free agency period, shaping their rosters for the season ahead.
Several free agents still remain on the market, waiting to see how the draft unfolds. Among them is former NFC Champion quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, who has yet to sign with a new team—or return to the Los Angeles Rams.
Earlier speculation linked Garoppolo to a reunion with Mike LaFleur in Arizona as a potential Cardinals quarterback. That scenario has not materialized, leaving many to question his next move.
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Now, a clearer picture is emerging. Recent reports indicate that Garoppolo is considering retirement rather than returning for a 13th NFL season.
While that possibility isn’t entirely surprising, Garoppolo will likely draw interest after the draft. However, teams are unlikely to offer him a starting role.
Garoppolo once drew significant interest as a backup during his time with the New England Patriots. Multiple teams attempting to trade for him in 2015 and 2016.
In 2017, the Patriots traded him to the San Francisco 49ers, where he helped lead the team to a Super Bowl appearance just two years later. Now, he has reached a stage in his career where teams view him as a reliable QB2 rather than a starter.
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That said, circumstances can change. The Pittsburgh Steelers continue to wait on Aaron Rodgers’ decision. If Rodgers chooses to walk away or retire, Garoppolo could emerge as an option.
Similarly, if the Cardinals decide to move on from Jacoby Brissett, Garoppolo could become a candidate there. Several potential paths remain for him to land with a team.
Ultimately, the key question is whether Garoppolo wants to continue his career in a backup role or step away from the game. He has spent much of his career as a highly valued backup, but many competitors recognize when it’s time to move on.