Jimmy Garoppolo‘s shoulder surgery might have hurt the San Francisco 49ers‘ chances of trading him.
After all, the shoulder is important to a quarterback’s ability to throw.
Therefore, the veteran quarterback remains a 49er as of today.
However, as NFL insider Jordan Schultz shared, the Niners have options.
As of this morning, the #49ers had not made any more progress on a Jimmy Garappolo trade, sources say. San Francisco would clear $25.5M in cap space if he’s released by tomorrow’s 4pm ET deadline. I’m also told John Lynch prefers not to face Jimmy G with the #Seahawks Week 2.
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) August 29, 2022
Schultz tweeted, “As of this morning, the #49ers had not made any more progress on a Jimmy Garappolo trade, sources say. San Francisco would clear $25.5M in cap space if he’s released by tomorrow’s 4 pm ET deadline. I’m also told John Lynch prefers not to face Jimmy G with the #Seahawks Week 2.”
Cutting him will open up a significant portion of their cap space.
However, it’s a move that could backfire, especially if other teams are interested in bringing him in.
The Seattle Seahawks have decided that Geno Smith will be their starter for Week 1 of the 2022 season against former quarterback Russell Wilson and the Denver Broncos.
But Garoppolo suddenly becoming available at a bargain could change their minds.
After all, none of the Seahawks quarterbacks have been highly impressive during the preseason.
Releasing Garoppolo Could Boost Trey Lance’s Confidence
There have been reports that Trey Lance struggles with his accuracy because of his weird wrist angle.
Psychologically, knowing that Garoppolo is still around might affect his mindset.
He will always be looking above his shoulders because another option is available.
Despite his struggles, Garoppolo helped the 49ers reach the NFC Championship Game last season and Super Bowl LIV to culminate the 2018 season.
But getting rid of Garoppolo might be the final move that Lance needs to really own the position.
There will be no turning back from that moment as the 49ers hopeful pin their hopes on him.
NEXT: NFL Insider Reveals Jimmy Garoppolo Trade Market