Las Vegas Raiders Rumors: Team Could Cut Newly Signed Quarterback


According to recent reports from various sources, including Mike Florio of Pro Football Focus, Tashan Reed, and Vic Tafur of The Athletic, there are significant developments surrounding Jimmy Garoppolo's contract with the Las Vegas Raiders.

Garoppolo signed a three-year contract with the Raiders worth $72.75 million. However, the deal includes a specific clause that grants the team the ability to release Garoppolo without any penalty if he fails to pass a physical examination due to his previously surgically repaired foot.

This foot injury was sustained during his time with the San Francisco 49ers in December, leading him to undergo surgery in March before finalizing his contract with the Raiders.

The inclusion of a waiver and release clause in the contract indicates that Garoppolo acknowledges the potential risk of further injury and waives any responsibility on the part of the Raiders. This provision grants the Raiders the option to terminate Garoppolo's contract without incurring any financial consequences.

Nevertheless, if Garoppolo successfully passes a physical examination at any point during the 2023 season, the waiver becomes null and void.

While this contract structure provides the Raiders with an easy exit strategy in case Garoppolo's recovery does not progress as anticipated, the team currently lacks attractive alternatives at the quarterback position.

The remaining quarterbacks on the Raiders' roster include Brian Hoyer, a 37-year-old journeyman, fourth-round rookie Aidan O'Connell, and undrafted free agent Chase Garbers from the 2022 season.

The free-agent market also offers limited options, with Carson Wentz, Matt Ryan, Teddy Bridgewater, and Joe Flacco being the most experienced choices from a relatively uninspiring crop of quarterbacks.

Given the uncertainties surrounding Garoppolo's injury and recovery, his health will undoubtedly be closely monitored in the coming months. If he fails to regain full fitness to play for the Raiders, it is expected that the team would explore adding another quarterback to their roster. Photo Credit: Candice Ward-USA TODAY Sports