The new era of Las Vegas Raiders football is here as the team has retooled the roster in hopes of finally getting back into the postseason.
The biggest change the team made was under center as they parted ways with Derek Carr and signed free agent Jimmy Garoppolo. Garoppolo spent the past few seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, where he had an excellent run, but now comes to Las Vegas, where he reunites with Josh McDaniels.
One can argue that Carr and Garoppolo are about the same tier of quarterback, but the latter might be a better fit under McDaniels, considering his familiarity running the offense. However, Garoppolo’s tenure with the Raiders has gotten off to a rocky start, as it was discovered that he required foot surgery in the offseason.
Despite the operation, the quarterback is expected to be ready for training camp via Nick Shook of NFL.com
Garoppolo, who underwent foot surgery this offseason, is expected to be ready long before the start of training camp, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday on Inside Minicamps on NFL+.
Garoppolo’s free agency signing announcement was delayed due to a failed physical which led to an altered contract, though those details weren’t released until recently. The timing would put any fan on edge, as being without their starting quarterback to begin the 2023 season wouldn’t be the start most hoped for.
The veteran signal-caller has endured his fair share of injuries in his career, and while he’s slated to come back in time, it does raise concerns about his long-term durability. The Raiders are hoping they can compete in the short term with Garoppolo, but it’s anyone’s guess if he’ll be able to hold up for the duration of his contract.
It’s too early for the Silver and Black faithful to panic about their quarterback situation, but Garoppolo needing surgery before taking a snap would make any queasy. Hopefully, the foot issue doesn’t bother him, and he’s able to start the year on a good note.
Josh McDaniels not concerned about Jimmy Garoppolo’s injury
While fans might be anxious about Garoppolo’s foot injury, McDaniels isn’t one of them. As someone who’s been around the league for a long time, McDaniels understands that experienced players will miss time for whatever reason.
McDaniels recently explained why he isn’t worried about Garoppolo’s availability and that he’s still excited to have him around the team during offseason workouts.