Jimmy Garoppolo Suspended: Raiders Set to Release QB Following Violation of NFL’s PED Policy
In a shocking turn of events, Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo is set to face a two-game suspension for violating the NFL’s Performance Enhancing Substances (PED) policy. The suspension comes amidst a tumultuous period for Garoppolo, who is also expected to be released by the Raiders before the new league year in March.
Garoppolo’s tumultuous journey with the Raiders began last offseason when he signed a three-year, $72.75 million contract under the coaching tenure of Josh McDaniels and general manager Dave Ziegler. However, his tenure with the team has been marred by injuries, ineffective play, and now a suspension for violating the league’s PED policy.
The suspension stems from Garoppolo’s use of a prescribed medication without having a valid Therapeutic Use Exemption from the league. The NFL has imposed a two-game suspension on the 32-year-old quarterback, who has decided not to appeal the ruling. This means Garoppolo will miss the first two games of the upcoming 2024-25 NFL season, regardless of the team he is on.
In a strategic move, the Raiders are expected to release Garoppolo before the fifth day of the new league year in March. This decision is aimed at avoiding the activation of an $11.25 million roster bonus, demonstrating the team’s readiness to move on from the veteran quarterback. The release will result in $17.068 million in dead money but will save the Raiders $11.269 million on the salary cap.
Garoppolo’s on-field performance with the Raiders was marked by inconsistencies and a lackluster showing. He started six games, completing 65.1% of his passes for 1,205 yards with seven touchdowns and nine interceptions. His struggles led to being benched in favor of rookie Aidan O’Connell during the 2023 season.
With Garoppolo set to hit the open market, questions arise about his future in the NFL. Given his injury history, performance, and the suspension, he may need to find a role as a veteran backup to rebuild his value. The quarterback carousel in the NFL continues, and Garoppolo’s next destination remains uncertain.
Following Garoppolo’s imminent release, the Raiders will be left with Aidan O’Connell and veteran Brian Hoyer as the two quarterbacks on their roster. However, it is speculated that the team will be aggressive in seeking a new quarterback, potentially through the draft or free agency.
Jimmy Garoppolo’s suspension and impending release add another layer of intrigue to the offseason quarterback market. The Raiders, under new leadership with coach Antonio Pierce and general manager Tom Telesco, are poised for a fresh start at the quarterback position. As the NFL offseason unfolds, the fate of Garoppolo and the quarterback landscape league-wide will undoubtedly be closely monitored by football enthusiasts and analysts alike.