Raiders Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo Expected to Open Training Camp After Passing Physical
Raiders quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo has passed his physical and is set to open training camp with the team, according to league sources. ESPN was the first to report this news. Garoppolo had been rehabbing from offseason foot surgery and did not participate in on-the-field activities during OTAs. The former 49ers quarterback suffered a left foot injury late last season and underwent surgery in March after agreeing to a three-year deal with the Raiders.
Las Vegas will kick off its first full training camp practice on Wednesday. Garoppolo’s return to the field means that he will have ample time to build chemistry with his new receivers, including Davante Adams. While Garoppolo is familiar with Josh McDaniels’ offense from their time together with the Patriots, it is crucial for him to re-familiarize himself with the progressions and nuances of the system.
The Raiders no longer need to void Garoppolo’s contract after reworking some of the language following his foot surgery. With Garoppolo as the clear-cut No. 1 quarterback, the team now has an experienced backup in Brian Hoyer and a young prospect in third-round pick Aidan O’Connell. This solidifies the depth chart and provides stability at the quarterback position for the Raiders.
Garoppolo’s return to training camp alleviates one of the major concerns heading into the season. However, the team still awaits the return of first-round pick Tyree Wilson, who is recovering from a foot injury of his own. Wilson was placed on the Non-Football Injury (NFI) list, while rookie defensive lineman Byron Young was placed on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list due to an undisclosed injury. Additionally, the Raiders need to identify their starting cornerbacks, but the imminent signing of veteran Marcus Peters will address half of that issue.
In March, Garoppolo, 31, agreed to a three-year deal worth up to $72.5 million with the Raiders after the team released quarterback Derek Carr, who subsequently signed with the Saints. Garoppolo threw for 2,437 yards, 16 touchdowns, and four interceptions last season with the San Francisco 49ers. He is expected to be the Raiders’ starting quarterback for the 2023 season. Jarrett Stidham, who started the final two games of the regular season for Las Vegas after Carr was benched, has since signed with the Broncos.
In conclusion, Jimmy Garoppolo’s return to the field for training camp is a positive development for the Raiders. With his physical clearance, he can now focus on building chemistry with his new teammates and familiarizing himself with the offensive system. The team’s depth chart at quarterback is solidified, providing stability and options for the upcoming season. While there are still some injury concerns and position battles to address, the Raiders are in a better position with Garoppolo leading the way.