Giants in Trouble? Breaking Down the Pros and Cons of Signing QB Jimmy Garoppolo

Should the New York Giants Consider Jimmy Garoppolo as a Veteran Backup?

The New York Giants are on the hunt for a long-term quarterback solution, and 33-year-old Jimmy Garoppolo isn’t that answer. However, the Giants may still be in the market for veteran leadership, potentially adding Garoppolo as a third quarterback to bolster their revamped quarterback room. If Joe Schoen and the Giants opt to bring in three signal-callers, is Garoppolo a viable option for the backup spot?

 

 

 

 

New York may target two free-agent quarterbacks in March while also looking to draft one early. If they sign two free agents, it’s not a guarantee that either will secure a roster spot, especially with the possibility of cheap, non-guaranteed contracts. In such a scenario, Garoppolo could serve as a depth option, providing veteran experience.

 

 

 

 

Garoppolo’s time with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2023 ended poorly, following a turbulent stint under coach Josh McDaniels. That season, he completed 65.1% of his passes for 1,205 yards, with 7 touchdowns and 9 interceptions. His Big-Time Throw Rate was a disappointing 1.1%, and his Turnover Worthy Play Rate stood at 3%. Garoppolo also suffered a concussion and a lower-back sprain, which led to his benching in favor of rookies Aidan O’Connell and Brian Hoyer. To make matters worse, he was suspended for two games due to violating the NFL’s Performance-Enhancing Substances Policy, which carried over into the 2024 season.

 

 

 

 

 

Despite the struggles in Las Vegas, Garoppolo found a new home with the Los Angeles Rams in 2024, where he backed up Matt Stafford after signing a one-year, $3.2 million contract. He started Week 18 when the Rams rested their starters, throwing for 334 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 1 interception. While the sample size is small, Garoppolo’s performance was an improvement over his Raiders tenure, and there were flashes of strong play. This has led some to wonder if the Giants should consider him, especially given how Rams coach Sean McVay rejuvenated Baker Mayfield’s career.

 

 

 

 

Garoppolo’s Strengths:

• Flashes of arm talent: Garoppolo has shown the ability to make impressive throws, including one against the Rams where he hit a receiver on a far-hash dart despite tight coverage. His placement on throws over the top of defenders also showed solid arm strength, even if his deep-ball accuracy remains inconsistent.
• Poise under pressure: In his brief stint with the Rams, Garoppolo appeared composed, with his body mechanics syncing up well to maximize accuracy. He showed maturity when hitting throws in critical situations, such as a well-executed play-action pass in a two-minute drill to extend the game.
• High-level throws: Garoppolo made several pinpoint throws in 2023, such as a pass to Michael Mayer over two defenders and another to Davante Adams, showing solid anticipation and accuracy.
• Toughness: Garoppolo demonstrated resilience after taking significant hits, such as a big shot while delivering a pass to Tutu Atwell, showcasing his ability to absorb pressure and maintain poise.
• Ability to extend plays: While Garoppolo isn’t known for his mobility, he can step up in the pocket to extend plays. He displayed solid execution on the move, throwing a well-placed touchdown while running out of the pocket.

Garoppolo’s Weaknesses:

• Deep ball accuracy issues: Garoppolo’s deep-ball accuracy has always been a concern. A throw to Davante Adams against the Lions was too far, which is a common problem throughout his career. Additionally, Garoppolo sometimes struggles with under-pressure throws, resulting in low or off-target passes.
• Reckless play: Garoppolo has been guilty of reckless throws, especially when under pressure. There were several interceptions, including one where he misread the coverage and threw a critical pick to the Packers. These mistakes have been a consistent issue throughout his career.
• Limited mobility: Garoppolo isn’t the most mobile quarterback, and while he can extend plays occasionally, his lack of foot speed limits his effectiveness outside the pocket. His inability to scramble consistently is a disadvantage, particularly in Brian Daboll’s offense, which values mobility.

Final Thoughts:

Garoppolo’s 2024 performance was better than expected, but signing a 33-year-old quarterback with limited mobility for Brian Daboll’s system offers minimal upside. If the Giants pursue Garoppolo, it should be on a cheap, short-term deal, with him competing for the third quarterback spot. His presence could provide veteran depth, but if Garoppolo beats out the second quarterback on the roster, it would raise significant questions about Joe Schoen’s player evaluation.