Free agent quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo has become a prominent option for the Arizona Cardinals’ starting quarterback role, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler on March 1. The 34-year-old signal-caller is reportedly favored by the Cardinals’ new head coach Mike LaFleur, who is keen on establishing a clear quarterback plan in his inaugural season with the team.
Garoppolo, who most recently served as a backup for the Los Angeles Rams behind NFL MVP Matthew Stafford, stands as a strong choice for the Cardinals following indications that their current starter, Kyler Murray, may be released unless a trade is finalized at the last minute.
Garoppolo’s Relationship with Cardinals’ Coaching Staff and Team Interest
A league source described Garoppolo as “his guy,” referring to LaFleur’s preference for the veteran quarterback. This close connection between the player and coach strengthens Garoppolo’s chances of assuming the starting position. Garoppolo’s experience includes a solid tenure with the San Francisco 49ers, where he amassed a 38-17 record over six seasons, and a combined 43-21 record as an NFL starter.
During his recent time with the Rams, Garoppolo participated in one start and four appearances, compiling 334 passing yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. Despite his backup role, Garoppolo remains a respected veteran with proven leadership capabilities.
Potential Alternatives and Garoppolo’s Career Standing
According to Fowler, the quarterback has one of the league’s most favorable backup roles with the Rams, who would be open to re-signing him. Another opportunity mentioned is a backup role with the Green Bay Packers. These options give Garoppolo some flexibility as he evaluates his next move.
“Something to keep in mind with Garoppolo: He has one of the league’s best QB2 jobs with the Rams, who would welcome him back. Joining Green Bay as a No. 2 is also an option,”
Fowler wrote regarding Garoppolo’s career considerations.
Kyler Murray’s Injury Concerns and Roster Changes
Kyler Murray’s status with the Cardinals appears uncertain, as NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that Murray is expected to be released barring a last-minute trade during his live coverage at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. Murray has dealt with significant injury setbacks, including a mid-foot sprain sustained in Week 5 of the 2025 season that limited him to just five starts.
This injury ultimately led to Murray’s shutdown by December due to poor healing progress. Selected first overall in the 2019 NFL Draft, Murray earned NFL Rookie of the Year honors that same year and was a Pro Bowler in 2020 and 2021. However, his frequent injuries have restricted him to 11 or fewer games in three of the past four seasons, affecting his overall contribution to the team’s success.
“You got Kyler Murray, a likely release from the Arizona Cardinals, absent some sort of last-minute trade, which I’d be a little surprised about,”
Rapoport stated during the NFL Network broadcast from the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine.
Garoppolo’s Experience and What It Means for the Cardinals’ Future
Garoppolo’s extensive NFL experience and leadership qualities make him an appealing option for the Cardinals as they look to stabilize the quarterback position following Murray’s injury challenges. His history as a reliable starter with the 49ers and ability to successfully serve as a backup with the Rams reflect his adaptability and professionalism.
For Arizona, signing Garoppolo could bring much-needed stability to a critical role, while giving LaFleur a dependable veteran to execute his offensive vision. The transition could mark a new chapter for the Cardinals, potentially improving their offensive consistency and competitiveness in upcoming seasons.
As the NFL offseason unfolds, the Cardinals’ quarterback situation will remain a focal point, with Garoppolo’s potential signing carrying significant implications for their roster strategy and season outlook.
From our NFL Combine pregame show with @RhettNFL and @BuckyBrooks: A roundtable discussion of the hot topics buzzing in Indy. pic.twitter.com/1LsiOZxDJ5
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 1, 2026
