"We have a lot of confidence in [QB] Jacoby [Brissett]," Cleveland general manager Andrew Berry said on Thursday, making it sound like the team is prepared to push through the first 11 games with the seventh-year veteran helming the offense.
While many view Garoppolo as an upgrade over Brissett, NFL analyst Bucky Brooks doesn't feel that is the case if you factor in the 49ers quarterback's current salary. The Browns are probably unwilling to fork over $25 million for a short-term solution, despite their roster being stacked with talent. Brooks likes Garoppolo, his 31-14 career record, and playoff experience, but admits he shouldn't be considered a high-end starter.
"With the Browns looking for a long-term sub at the quarterback position, Garoppolo's familiarity with the system as a five-year starter under Kyle Shanahan is certainly intriguing to a coaching staff that wants to feature the 'stretch-bootleg' combination as the foundation of its offense," wrote Brooks.
However, Brooks does see a scenario where the Browns could be interested in acquiring Garoppolo. It just wouldn't benefit the 49ers much. He believes Cleveland should be interested should San Francisco end up releasing the quarterback, which could be what happens given the lack of interest around the league.
"Garoppolo is an oft-injured turnover machine who exhibits questionable judgment outside the pocket," wrote Brooks. "Perhaps he can avoid the injury bug and rein in some 'hero' throws that frequently lead to interceptions, but it is hard for a quarterback to change his style and approach at this stage of his career.
"With Brissett better suited to play mistake-free football from the pocket, the Browns should hold off on pursuing Garoppolo until he is free and clear from the 49ers. At that point, he might be willing to take a bargain-basement deal to join a team with Super Bowl aspirations."
If Garoppolo does end up with the Browns, it might not be via a trade. While the 49ers transition to second-year quarterback Trey Lance, the offseason Garoppolo situation and hopes of reaping a nice reward for the veteran quarterback seems to have backfired on the organization. Soon, it might be time for San Francisco to accept that and cut their losses.
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers mailbag: What do the 49ers have left in the tank for the last four games? Will SF bring back Robert Saleh? Can Brock Purdy beat good teams?
It's always a big week when the San Francisco 49ers play the Los Angeles Rams. In 2021, the rivalry became even bigger when the 49ers had to win in the season's final week, in Los Angeles, to make it into the playoffs. On Thursday night, the 49ers must win again to keep their... -
49ers vs. Rams injury updates: Ji'Ayir Brown questionable to return
The San Francisco 49ers entered Thursday night's NFC West showdown against the Los Angeles Rams without key players, most notably left tackle Trent Williams, who is sidelined for the fourth straight game with an ankle injury. On defense, standout rookie safety Malik Mustapha... -
49ers Notebook: 'We're going to find out who wants to be here'; Dre Greenlaw's return sparks team; Purdy's costly INT; Rams RB talks a little trash after win
Underneath the frustration of their rather awful 12-6 loss to the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday night, the San Francisco 49ers experienced one of the best moments of their forgettable 2024 season -- the return of linebacker Dre Greenlaw from the torn Achilles that kept him on... -
49ers vs. Bears final injury report: Williams won't play, Bosa doubtful
The San Francisco 49ers are preparing for their Week 14 contest against the Chicago Bears on Sunday at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Both teams have released their official injury reports, which are provided below. San Francisco 49ers Out LB Dre Greenlaw...