Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo had to rework his contract in order to finalize his three-year, $72.75 million contract with the team his offseason. As the 2023 NFL season nears, there is now uncertainty regarding his availability for training camp.
Garoppolo suffered a foot injury midway through last season, which landed him on injured reserve. While the San Francisco 49ers medical staff determined he didn’t need surgery, it was ultimately decided this spring that he needed to undergo a procedure to address the issue.
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The surgery resulted in Garoppolo failing his physical and led to contract leverage that allowed Las Vegas to release him without a financial penalty if he isn’t cleared to play. While it raised serious doubts about his availability for training camp, it appears Las Vegas isn’t concerned.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, head coach Josh McDaniels downplayed any concerns regarding Garoppolo’s recovery from surgery.
“I have no anxiety. You guys might have anxiety, I don’t have any anxiety.”
Josh McDaniels on his level of concern with Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo (H/T New York Post)
McDaniels expressed extreme confidence that Garoppolo will be ready for Week 1, with the team seemingly anticipating his return at some point in training camp. Whenever Garoppolo does return, though, his extended absence could have an influence on the offense.
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Impact of Jimmy Garoppolo’s absence on las Vegas Raiders offense
The offseason is an important time for players in their first season with a team, especially for quarterbacks. While Garoppolo is familiar with McDaniels’ offense and knows how he wants the system executed, timing and continuity only come with repetitions.
However, McDaniels downplayed the concern with reporters and cited Josh Jacobs’ success last season as evidence that missing time in the summer doesn’t necessarily matter.
“This is football. There (are) definitely going to be players that miss time. Josh Jacobs wasn’t able to do a whole lot last year either, and (he had a) decent year. I don’t want to overstate any of that stuff. The relationships, the trust, the communication, the rapport, all that stuff is huge.”
Las Vegas Raiders coach Josh McDaniels on Jimmy Garoppolo missing time
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While Jacobs is coming off a breakout season, he plays a position with far lesser stakes. As long as the football is in his hands and he knows his role, a running back can be extremely productive in the right offense.
With Garoppolo, every practice he misses means missed reps with Davante Adams, Hunter Renfrow and Jakobi Meyers. Even if he memorizes the system, rapport is necessary to maintain a consistent connection with wide receivers. The Raiders still have time on their side, but it wouldn’t be a surprise if the offense comes out slow to start the regular season.
