Report: Jimmy Garoppolo is open to playing in 2026

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CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - JANUARY 10: Jimmy Garoppolo #11 of the Los Angeles Rams looks on before the NFC Wild Card Playoff game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on January 10, 2026 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by David Jensen/Getty Images) | Getty Images

It seems Aaron Donald is not the only ex-member of the Los Angeles Rams that is considering unwinding his retirement. Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reported that Jimmy Garoppolo is open to playing in 2026 after mulling hanging up his cleats this spring.

From The Insiders: Jimmy Garoppolo considered retirement this spring but is very much open to playing this season in the right situation. Nothing imminent but he’s an experienced, veteran QB available for a team that might need one in the near future. pic.twitter.com/Q60E9tFCXD

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) July 22, 2026

The Rams could still use Garoppolo’s services. Stetson Bennett is currently the primary understudy to Matthew Stafford in a year when expectations for LA are Super Bowl or bust. Bennett has never taken a regular season snap. Garoppolo brings a seasoned resume that can keep the team afloat if Stafford misses extended time.

One complication is the fact that Los Angeles drafted Ty Simpson in the first round this spring. Garoppolo may not want to join a quarterback room where he is in danger of losing playing time to a highly drafted rookie.

There could be more appealing options for the veteran once training camp gets underway. Each year there is a notable preseason injury or lackluster training camp performance that could open a path to playing time for someone like Garoppolo. They say good things come to those that wait, and that is generally true for free agent quarterbacks in July and August.

Is Garoppolo’s reconsideration of retirement a positive development for the Rams? Yes, especially if they have concerns about Bennett’s ability to step in for Stafford. LA can easily move on from Bennett in favor of a quarterback with a wealth of starting experience.

Are the Rams the most attractive destination for a quarterback who is nearing the end of his career and probably wants a chance to play? Well, that answer is more complicated after the addition of Simpson.

Stay tuned at Turf Show Times for any updates on Garoppolo and training camp. Players report later this week.

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