Raiders Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo Suspended Two Games for Violating NFL's Substance Policy
ICARO Media Group
The suspension comes after it was discovered that Garoppolo had used a prescribed medication without a valid Therapeutic Use Exemption.
Garoppolo, who played seven games with the Raiders last season, has reportedly decided not to appeal the suspension. As a result, he will miss the first two games of the upcoming 2024-25 NFL season. At this time, it remains uncertain which team Garoppolo will be on when he serves the suspension.
The Raiders are expected to release the 32-year-old next month before he's due an $11.25 million roster bonus. With the team undergoing new leadership under head coach Antonio Pierce and general manager Tom Telesco, they are ready to move on from Garoppolo and explore other options at the quarterback position.
Under NFL rules, Garoppolo is allowed to participate in offseason activities and training camp with a new team. However, once the regular season begins, he will not be permitted to take part in any games or practices for the duration of his two-week suspension.
Garoppolo had signed a lucrative three-year, $72.75 million deal with the Raiders last March, which included $33.75 million in guaranteed money. The quarterback, who began his NFL career with the New England Patriots, spent seven seasons with the San Francisco 49ers before joining the Raiders and reuniting with head coach Josh McDaniels.
In the 2023 season, Garoppolo played seven games before being benched in late October in favor of rookie Aidan O'Connell. This move coincided with the firing of McDaniels and general manager David Ziegler. With the change in leadership and Garoppolo's suspension, the Raiders are ready to make a fresh start at the quarterback position, potentially giving O'Connell the opportunity to start the season under center or using their No. 13 overall pick in the upcoming draft to select a new quarterback.