In a move that has been speculated for some time, the Las Vegas Raiders have officially announced the decision to part ways with quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo and wide receiver Hunter Renfrow. This decision was made on the first day of the new league year, allowing the team to clear up a significant $19 million in salary-cap space.

Joining Garoppolo and Renfrow in their departure are backup quarterback Brian Hoyer and defensive tackle Jerry Tillery. The release of these players further emphasizes the Raiders' commitment to revamping their roster and making strategic financial decisions.

The writing was on the wall for Garoppolo, as reports surfaced that the Raiders had reached a two-year, $25 million agreement with free-agent quarterback Gardner Minshew. Minshew's arrival will provide competition for Aidan O'Connell, should the team not find a quarterback in the upcoming draft.

Garoppolo's tenure with the Raiders lasted just one year, closely following his signing of a three-year, $72.75 million deal as a free agent last offseason. Unfortunately, it was a forgettable season for the 10-year veteran, as he recorded career lows in completion percentage (65.1), passer rating (77.7), and QBR (34.2), all while playing a minimum of six games.

The end of Garoppolo's career with the Raiders mirrors the beginning, as his contract was initially delayed until he passed a physical due to a left foot injury. Throughout the season, Garoppolo faced more setbacks with a concussion and a back injury, limiting him to just seven games, 1,205 passing yards, and leading the NFL in interceptions at the time of his benching.

The release of Garoppolo comes just days before his $11.25 million roster bonus was due, providing the Raiders with significant financial relief. Additionally, they were able to save the guaranteed $11.25 million base salary owed to him, as Garoppolo received a two-game suspension from the NFL for violating the league's performance-enhancing drugs policy.

In a statement made during exit interviews, Garoppolo expressed his desire to get back to playing and emphasized his love for winning. He stated that his main focus as a football player is to go out there and secure victories, rather than solely focusing on personal statistics.

Joining Garoppolo in his departure is wide receiver Hunter Renfrow, who was released two years after being elected to his first Pro Bowl. During that season, Renfrow showcased his talent by hauling in 103 catches for 1,038 yards and nine touchdowns. The Raiders subsequently rewarded him with a two-year, $32 million extension, with $21 million guaranteed.

However, Renfrow's performance declined in 2022 and 2023, as he registered a combined total of 61 catches for 585 yards and two touchdowns. Despite the downturn, Renfrow expressed gratitude to Raider Nation for welcoming him and his family over the past five years. He thanked his teammates and coaches for their inspiration, and although his time with the Raiders has come to an end, he will always consider himself a Raider.

The release of Garoppolo and Renfrow allows the Raiders to create additional flexibility in their salary cap, enabling them to explore new opportunities and make strategic moves during the offseason. As the team continues to shape their roster, the departures of these two players mark the end of a chapter in the Raiders' history while opening up possibilities for new talent and exciting acquisitions.