Garoppolo Considers Retirement, Impacts Rams QB Plans

Free-agent quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo is considering retirement after a 12-year NFL career, a decision that could force the Los Angeles Rams to rethink their backup plans behind starter Matthew Stafford for the 2026 season.

The 34-year-old Garoppolo, who served as the Rams' primary backup over the past two seasons, became an unrestricted free agent this offseason following a one-year contract extension. Sources indicate he is weighing whether to continue playing or step away from the game, with no final decision announced. His potential exit leaves the Rams with limited quarterback depth, currently consisting only of Stafford and rookie Stetson Bennett on the roster.

Garoppolo's tenure with the Rams began in 2024, when he joined the team after being released by the Las Vegas Raiders. That year, he appeared in one game, completing 65.9 percent of his passes for 334 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. He also served a two-game suspension for violating the league's performance-enhancing substance policy. Last offseason, the Rams re-signed him to back up Stafford, who led the team to a successful campaign.

The uncertainty arrives just days before the NFL Draft, complicating...