There's been another big NFL quarterback move – and it doesn't include 49ers signal-caller Jimmy Garoppolo.
According to Fox Sports' Jay Glazer Monday, the Indianapolis Colts are finalizing a trade with the Atlanta Falcons to acquire veteran quarterback Matt Ryan. The Colts have been listed as a logical landing spot for Garoppolo since Carson Wentz was traded to the Washington Commanders, but it appears Indy has gone another direction.
Given the revolving door nature of the NFL quarterback carousel this offseason, you have to now assume that Atlanta is in the running for a QB1 after the departure of Ryan. The 36-year-old has only missed three regular season starts over his 14-year career with the Falcons. He tossed for 3,968 yards, 20 touchdowns and 12 interceptions last year while leading Atlanta to a 7-10 record.
The Seattle Seahawks, New Orleans Saints, Houston Texans and Carolina Panthers remain in the market for an upgrade at quarterback. From an outsider's perspective, it seems a bit odd that the 49ers haven't been able to deal Garoppolo yet. You have to wonder if teams are hesitant to execute a trade while Garoppolo recovers from recent surgery to his throwing shoulder.
Here's list of quarterbacks who have found new homes this offseason before Garoppolo: Ryan, Russell Wilson (Denver Broncos), Deshaun Watson (Cleveland Browns), Wentz (Commanders) and Mitch Trubisky (Pittsburgh Steelers).
The 49ers are expected to hand over the offense to 2021 No. 3 overall pick Trey Lance this fall. Garoppolo is due to make $26.9 million but the Niners can save $25.5 million by trading or releasing him, per Spotrac.
According to Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio on Monday morning, the 49ers reportedly had an offer for two second-round picks for Jimmy G, which seems like a no-brainer. Florio reported that general manager John Lynch is holding out for a better package, which seems a bit overzealous, if true.
At this point, it seems hard to imagine a better return than two No. 2s for Garoppolo, especially with possible suitors like the Colts, Commanders and Steelers going other directions.
