New York Giants have 'real interest' in QB Jimmy Garoppolo - Giants Wire

The New York Giants have real interest in free-agent quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo as they look to strengthen the position after Jaxson Dart’s season-ending left knee injury.

Dart tore his MCL and PCL and damaged his meniscus when he was hit during Monday night’s 28-6 loss to the Los Angeles Rams. He has been placed on injured reserve (IR) and is done for the year.

Jameis Winston, who signed a two-year, $13 million extension before the season that keeps him under contract through 2028, is now the starter. Practice-squad quarterback Jake Haener is the only other signal-caller on the roster.

Ryan Dunleavy of the New York Post reported on Thursday that the Garoppolo buzz is picking up and that a league source indicated the 34-year-old could sit near the top of New York’s list. NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo said on ESPN he believes Garoppolo would be interested and that the Giants are one of the few situations the veteran would consider.

Garoppolo, a 2014 second-round pick by the New England Patriots, is 43-21 in 64 career starts. He guided the San Francisco 49ers to Super Bowl LIV and spent the past two years as Matthew Stafford’s backup with the Rams. He last threw a pass in a Week 18 start to close the 2024 season, completing 27 of 41 attempts for 334 yards, two touchdowns and one interception.

He did not attempt a pass in three appearances last season and remained unsigned after considering retirement this offseason.

Head coach John Harbaugh said on Wednesday that all options are open to supplement the quarterback room. The Giants are not expected to replace Winston, but adding a veteran with starting experience would provide insurance and a complementary option in a run-first offense.