Jimmy Garoppolo’s PED suspension had 1 huge consequence

Jimmy Garoppolo’s failure to pass a performance-enhancing drug test earlier this year cost him more than just the first two games of the 2024 season.

Garoppolo was suspended for two games last month after it was alleged that he took a prescription drug that contained an illegal substance. The seasoned quarterback acknowledged to the media on Tuesday that he “messed up” when trying to get an NFL therapeutic use exemption.

As Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio pointed out in February, Garoppolo’s 2024 deal included a $11.25 million salary guarantee, which the Las Vegas Raiders were able to invalidate due to his suspension. Even after Garoppolo signed with another team, the Raiders would have still owed him that money because they were going to cut him otherwise.

Since then, Garoppolo and the Los Angeles Rams have agreed to a one-year contract. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, Garoppolo’s contract with the Rams is worth $4.5 million, with incentives potentially raising that amount to $12 million on Wednesday.

After agreeing to a three-year, $72.75 million deal with the Raiders last offseason, the 32-year-old quarterback was benched after playing in just seven games. He finished with a completion percentage of 65.1% for 1,205 yards, seven touchdowns, and nine interceptions. The Raiders were willing to pay a hefty price to let go of Garoppolo, but he saved them with his suspension.