Jimmy Garoppolo has decided not to retire after being released by the Los Angeles Rams earlier this offseason. While the veteran quarterback remains a free agent, he isn't ready to walk away from the NFL.

NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reported that Garoppolo spent the offseason weighing retirement before deciding he'd return if the right opportunity comes along.

"Here's my understanding with Jimmy G. In the right situation, he will come back, and he will play football,” Garafolo said. “He has not decided to retire. He just needed some time to himself this offseason.”

Garafolo also noted that Garoppolo isn't expected to sign anytime soon. Instead, the veteran could become an option later in the season if a team loses its starting quarterback or needs experienced depth.

"I don't think anything is imminent. I wouldn't expect him to sign with anybody,” Mike Garafolo of NFL Network said. “Maybe it's gonna have to be an injury to a quarterback, and you need a veteran guy to be part of the mix, if not the starter.

The 34-year-old QB has completed his two-year stint with the Rams and only appeared in four games, where he threw for 334 yards and scored two touchdowns. 

Garoppolo has earned more than $156 million across his 12 NFL seasons, according to Spotrac, despite spending much of the past few years in backup roles.

Garoppolo ultimately decided to keep playing after spending the offseason considering retirement, leaving the door open for another opportunity if the right situation presents itself.

NBC Sports' Charean Williams notes Garoppolo's 12 years of backup experience make him an attractive depth option for any franchise.

There isn't an obvious landing spot for Garoppolo right now, but one NFC team has already been mentioned as a possible fit if it decides to add another veteran quarterback.

Could the Cardinals be Jimmy Garoppolo's next stop

One team that could make sense is the Arizona Cardinals. Jess Root of Cardinals Wire suggested Garoppolo remains a realistic option as uncertainty continues around backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett's contract situation.

The Cardinals reportedly explored adding Garoppolo earlier in free agency, but the two sides never reached an agreement.

It is reported that Garoppolo and head coach Mike LaFleur have good relations after their time together in the Los Angeles Rams. 

Root also pointed to Arizona's decision to start Josh Dobbs in 2023 as an example of the team turning to experienced veterans when needed.

Garoppolo's decision to keep playing means he'll remain available if another opportunity opens up, and Root believes Arizona is one team worth watching should it decide to add another veteran quarterback.

Do you think he would return to the Rams? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.

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Written by

Kunwar Yashaswee Chhaunker

Edited by

Rudra Dubey