Jimmy Garoppolo gets two-game PED ban with Raiders release coming
Jimmy Garoppolo’s Raiders tenure is ending with shame — and with an eight-figure hit to his wallet.
The veteran quarterback was suspended for two games in the 2024 season on Friday for a violation of the NFL’s performance-enhancing drug policy, according to ESPN.
Garoppolo, though, will serve that two-game ban with another team as the Raiders will be releasing him before the start of the new league year, according to the report.
Because of this suspension, the Raiders can void the guaranteed $11.25 million salary he would have been scheduled to earn had he still be on the team.
Las Vegas already would have avoided paying his $11.25 million workout bonus by releasing him, but the Raiders now saved even more money.
Garoppolo reportedly used a prescription medication but did not have the proper Therapeutic Use Exemption from the NFL, resulting in the suspension.
He will not appeal the ban, according to ESPN.
This suspension and eventual release puts a bow on what was a disastrous one year in Sin City for the former 49ers and Patriots quarterback.
After losing his job to Brock Purdy in San Francisco, Garoppolo joined the Raiders on a three-year, $72.75 million contract.
Garoppolo did not impress with his new team, throwing just seven touchdowns and nine interceptions in his seven starts.
In his final start Oct. 30 against the Lions, Garoppolo repeatedly missed a wide-open Davante Adams down the field in a 26-14 loss.
The Raiders then benched him for 2023 fourth-round pick Aidan O’Connell, who played OK at best while tossing 12 touchdowns to just seven interceptions.
Their struggles are why the Raiders reportedly are eyeing a potential draft trade to move up and acquire one of the top collegiate quarterbacks.
Considering Garoppolo’s struggles, salary and that was he was signed by the previous regime featuring coach Josh McDaniels and general manager Dave Ziegler, it’s not surprising that the new combo of head coach Antonio Pierce and general manager Tom Telesco are moving on from the 32-year-old.
Garoppolo said after the season he wanted to be able to play again somewhere.
“I’m pretty open,” Garoppolo said at the time. “A lot of things are out of my control. I’ve had situations like that before, so as a player, you’ve got to roll with the punches a little bit. Whatever happens, I think it all happens for a reason. You’ve got to make the best of your situation.”
Garoppolo should find work as a backup quarterback, with both the Giants and Jets among those in need of a second-string signal caller for the 2024 season.
ESPN’s report states Garoppolo will be able to be with his team in camp, but will be banned for two weeks once the regular season begins.
— with AP