We compiled a list of all the teams that should be looking into trading Baker Mayfield, Browns quarterback, over the weekend. With Mayfield now in the Panthers' hands, 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo will be the next veteran signal-caller to possibly land with a new team.
Which teams should consider making a move for Garoppolo's services? This is our attempt at identifying all franchises.
The Browns.
The Browns will need to make a decision on Jacoby Brissett and someone else if Deshaun Watson is suspended for the full season. Garoppolo could be that someone else. The financial aspect of the equation is key and San Francisco's expectations regarding trades. The Browns will be getting a fifth round pick in 2024, which could lead to a fourth-round selection. The 49ers should not be looking for more.
Steelers
The question is whether rookie Kenny Pickett will not be available, or whether Garoppolo could be better than Mitch Trubisky. Many would argue that Garoppolo is the best quarterback in the 49ers' history, despite his inability to win the game.
The Falcons.
Marcus Mariota deserves our respect, but Jimmy Garoppolo seems a better choice, if you want to win in 2022, and not just let nature take its course, as it en route for a top draft pick 2023.
The Lions.
Jimmy Garoppolo vs. Jared Goff? Advantage Garoppolo.
The Seahawks.
It is still unclear if they were interested in Baker Mayfield. Are Garoppolo and Drew Lock better than Geno Smith and Drew Lock? Probably. The 49ers and Seahawks would make that deal. It's unlikely, but it would not be unusual for a quarterback be traded to a rival division (Donovan McNabb and Drew Bledsoe are two examples).
The Saints.
The Saints were among the teams that pursued Deshaun Watson, as Mayfield mentioned. Garoppolo is a better choice than Jameis Winston? That assessment would be made by the Saints.
The Texans.
There are many connections between Garoppolo's and the Texans executives in New England during Garoppolo's time. Are he more talented than Davis Mills Yes. It is up to Mills to determine if the ceiling could be higher than Garoppolo.
The 49ers.
Garoppolo can be kept. They could do it for $25 million in 2022. It would be foolish. They could negotiate a new contract now, with the understanding that he will take less and possibly earn some back if he plays. He would also be a free agent in March. That would require him to be willing to do it. He would have to want it, based on comments he made earlier in the year.
The Dolphins.
We meet again, TuAnon. Are Garoppolo and Tua currently more equal? This is the question. Mike McDaniel is a new coach who likely saw enough of Garoppolo in San Francisco to know the answer.
Garoppolo will be happier if it is resolved sooner than it unfolds. He must be able to prepare for the 2022 season. He must make that $25 million salary, which is not guaranteed, into something with real money.
