Will Falcons Sign QB Jimmy Garoppolo With Bill Belichick Hire?

Originally posted on Atlanta Falcons on SI
By John Macon Gillespie | Last updated Jan 19, 2024 3:00 PM ET

With reports that the Atlanta Falcons are expected to hire Bill Belichick as their next head coach, could the franchise also have a new quarterback coming on the horizon?

Atlanta has not seen an elite level of production at the quarterback position in recent memory, wavering back and forth between Desmond Ridder and NFL-veteran Taylor Heinicke in the 2023 season. If the Falcons don't draft a new signal caller, perhaps a move from within the league could make sense.

One such name that could work in Atlanta is Jimmy Garoppolo, current quarterback with the Las Vegas Raiders. Garoppolo is scheduled to hit free agency this offseason, and he and Belichick have a history with one another, having been together with the New England Patriots from 2014-17. But would he be the right fit with the Falcons?

Let's take a look at the numbers.

Garoppolo only started two games during his time in New England, but he gained a majority of his career experience during his time with the San Francisco 49ers before joining the Raiders. He has never thrown for over 4,000 yards in a given season, but his on-field record is superb.

In his starts at quarterback, Garoppolo holds a record of 40-17. His individual stats may not jump off the page at first glance, but he has a proven ability to win ballgames. His connection with Belichick could make sense and make for a less-difficult transition when the Falcons make a change on offense.

Regardless, it is likely that Belichick will want a quarterback different than what currently resides on the roster, and perhaps Garoppolo could make the jump to Atlanta with the right offer on the table.

This article first appeared on Atlanta Falcons on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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