GLENDALE – The list for the Arizona Cardinals next starter under center continues to grow with 12-year veteran being linked to team. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported on Sunday that the franchise has interest in former Los Angeles Rams backup Jimmy Garoppolo. The 34-year-old has spent the past two seasons in Los Angeles alongside new Cardinals head Mike LaFleur.

Fowler stated that Garoppolo is LaFleur’s “guy” and could see a scenario that has them reuniting in Arizona.

Sep 21, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Los Angeles Rams quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo (11) runs off the field against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

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Garoppolo “strong” candidate for Cardinals:

Garoppolo hasn’t started an NFL game since Week 18 in 2024 vs. the Seattle Seahawks. In that game he threw for 334 passing yards, two touchdowns and an interception in the 30-25 loss. He hasn’t throw a pass in a game since then and is looked at to be the starter for LaFleur’s first year at the helm.

Besides the two’s connection with the Rams, Garoppolo makes sense for the franchise because of his history of winning. His reputation has taken a beating in recent years but a 43-21 career record is no laughing matter. Garoppolo has never had a losing season as a starter when playing more than three games. Being in great systems with the New England Patriots and San Francisco 49ers help, but he clearly understands what it takes to compete.

Jan 4, 2026; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo (11) and Arizona Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) talk following a game at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

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If Garoppolo is brought in, he’ll join his former Patriots teammate Jacoby Brissett in the quarterback room. The duo were together for one season in 2016, where they backed up Tom Brady, with the trio being the self-titled “Wolfpack.” Garoppolo was traded the following season, but their relationship remains strong.

General manager Monti Ossenfort and owner Michael Bidwill made it clear in their postseason press conference that they’re looking to win next season. Garoppolo has a history of being successful in this league and gives LaFleur a player he knows and trusts to learn his system. It could be a low-risk signing and act as a buffer until next year’s NFL draft, where the Cardinals could reassess their quarterback situation.

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