Jimmy Garoppolo opens up about NFL suspension and new role with Los Angeles Rams

The recently acquired backup quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams, Jimmy Garoppolo, addressed his recent two-game suspension for violating the NFL’s policy on performance-enhancing substances. 

In a statement to the press on Tuesday, Garoppolo acknowledged an error in failing to acquire a valid therapeutic-use exemption for his prescribed medication, characterizing it as a “mistake.”

TUE Oversight Leads to Garoppolo’s NFL Suspension

Garoppolo incurred a two-game suspension for breaching the NFL’s regulations on performance-enhancing substances, coinciding with his departure from the Las Vegas Raiders, where he played during the 2023 season.

His explanation suggests that he may have been undergoing treatment for the pedal foot fracture that sidelined him towards the conclusion of the 2022 regular season, leading to his replacement by the unexpected success story, San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy.

The Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) is a provision that permits players to receive treatment that would otherwise violate the league’s PED policy. 

They are allowed to compete while undergoing such treatment without facing suspension.

However, it appears that for reasons not fully disclosed, Garoppolo’s use of medication fell outside the permitted window, resulting in his violation and subsequent suspension.

This incident is significant because the timing suggests it was unrelated to treatment for the lower lumbar strain he suffered in Week 6. 

Ultimately, Garoppolo was benched in favor of rookie Aidan O’Connell.

Jimmy Garoppolo Optimistic Despite Suspension

While the suspension will not affect his involvement in offseason programs, Garoppolo, aged 32, will be subject to restrictions once the regular season begins. 

Despite this, he conveyed optimism, expressing hope that the team will achieve victories in his absence during the first two games.

Garoppolo’s transition to the Rams follows a one-year agreement, following his tenure with the Las Vegas Raiders. 

The experienced quarterback, who previously inked a lucrative three-year deal with the Raiders, now assumes a backup role to Matthew Stafford in Los Angeles.