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The New England Patriots have been linked to quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo on a near never-ending loop over the past several weeks leading up to the 2021 NFL Draft.
In fact, it was reported recently that the Patriots were working on a contract restructure for Garoppolo as a prelude to a potential trade for the San Francisco 49ers’ quarterback. Apparently, that’s no longer the case.
“I would never say never. But the Patriots aren’t expected to trade for Jimmy Garoppolo tonight or anytime soon,” NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport reported Thursday. “If the two sides could even come to terms (a big if), it would take a complex contract negotiation to get it done. Simply, NE doesn’t have room to fit the contract.”
There’s certainly issues as it relates to Garoppolo’s contract. That’s why the situation is so up in the air. He’s slated to count $26.38 million against the NFL salary cap in 2021. No team outside of the 49ers are going to pay this figure. That’s magnified with New England just north of $20 million under the cap.
Read More: New England Patriots, Atlanta Falcons discussed blockbuster trade for No. 4 pick
What do the New England Patriots do at quarterback?
Right now, Cam Newton is New England’s starting quarterback after struggling big time in that role last season. With that said, he’s signed to a contract that pays the former NFL MVP backup quarterback money.
There’s a chance that New England looks to move up from the 15th pick in the 2021 NFL Draft for a long-awaited heir-apparent to the departed Tom Brady. The team is said to be targeting Justin Fields from Ohio State in a trade-up scenario.
Read More: NFL trade rumors: Latest updates and information for 2021 offseason
The Jimmy Garoppolo situation comes to a head
Despite a public stance that indicates they plan to keep Garoppolo, the 49ers’ brass has been attempting to trade the Super Bowl quarterback ever since moving up to the third pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Right now, the market isn’t great for Garoppolo’s services. In addition to the New England Patriots likely being out on his services, the Denver Broncos just traded for Teddy Bridgewater.
Perhaps, the Washington Football Team, Chicago Bears and Houston Texans put in calls for Garoppolo during the 2021 NFL Draft. But that’s not yet known.