Kyle Shanahan downplays impact of Jimmy Garoppolo’s inside knowledge ahead of 49ers-Rams

This week, Los Angeles Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur mentioned that having quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo in the locker room could be advantageous as they prepare to host the San Francisco 49ers at SoFi Stadium on Sunday.

"Probably more so between Jimmy and Matthew [Stafford] maybe even just in the locker room in general," LaFleur told reporters via NBC Sports Bay Area. "Anytime you got a little more information when you've been in the locker room and had the success that Jimmy has had in that locker room, I'm sure that there are a few things that I'm not getting told and things like that. But just having Jimmy back right now has been great and it's a benefit."

Garoppolo spent six seasons with the 49ers under head coach Kyle Shanahan before joining the Las Vegas Raiders in 2023, later signing with the Rams this offseason.

After Friday's practice, Shanahan was asked about Garoppolo's potential to aid the Rams in their Week 3 NFC West matchup.

"I think it's way overblown," Shanahan responded. "I mean, a little bit more from Mike LaFleur. That started last year, though."

LaFleur, who spent four seasons working under Shanahan in Santa Clara, became the New York Jets' offensive coordinator in 2021 before joining the Rams last offseason. Shanahan's defense has already faced him twice.

Does Shanahan have any concerns about Garoppolo's influence on Sunday's outcome?

"No, not that much," he said.

After serving a two-game suspension for violating the NFL's performance-enhancing drugs policy, Garoppolo will suit up for the Rams for the first time this season.