Towards the end of last season, Jimmy Garoppolo's starts for the 49ers became must-watch events for Patriots fans. Bill Belichick was apparently tuned in, too.
On Tuesday, Sports Illustrated's Jenny Vrentas published the second lengthy profile extolling Jimmy G in as many days. In it, she reports Belichick texted Garoppolo congratulations after every 49ers win.
"Bill really, really liked Jimmy," Garoppolo's mother told Vrentas. "Not like they were warm and fuzzy—but they both knew it was there."
It's apparent Belichick prioritized finding a comfortable landing spot for Garoppolo. At the time of the trade last October, it was reported Belichick only called the 49ers about his prized backup's services. In Bleacher Report's fawning Jimmy G profile, writer Joon Lee says Belichick disregarded the Browns' offers, which included multiple high draft picks. Belichick reportedly believed in new San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan, and thought Garoppolo would thrive under his tutelage.
Belichick also holds great respect for the Shanahan family. As Vrentas notes, Mike Shanahan, Kyle's father, defended Belichick to the league during the Spygate saga.
While the curious circumstances surrounding the Garoppolo trade have been rehashed more times than Donald Trump has threatened nuclear war on Twitter, it's still worth pointing out how Belichick seemingly didn't act in the best interests of the organization. Instead of shopping Garoppolo for the best package, he seemed to act with Jimmy G's interests at the forefront of his mind.
While the Patriots' palace intrigue has died down, unresolved questions linger.
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