The Los Angeles Rams recently signed Jimmy Garoppolo as their backup quarterback, but the decision was not an easy one. Initially, the Rams had their sights set on former Commanders quarterback Sam Howell for the job. According to Mike Garafolo of NFL Media, the Rams coaching staff wanted Howell “badly,” but ultimately, Seattle outbid them for his services.
The Seahawks offered more in a trade for Howell on March 14, sending a third-round pick and a fifth-round pick to Washington in exchange for Howell and draft picks. Although it’s unclear what the Rams offered for Howell, the Commanders favored Seattle’s deal. Despite this setback, the Rams quickly turned to Jimmy Garoppolo as their backup quarterback after missing out on Howell.
Sam Howell started all 17 games for Washington last season but had a rough game against the Rams, where he was benched after struggling. With Garoppolo suspended for the first two weeks of the season, the Rams are still in need of a temporary backup quarterback. Carson Wentz, who served as the backup towards the end of the 2023 season, was not re-signed, leaving the Rams with an opening to fill during free agency.
In conclusion, while Sam Howell was initially targeted by Los Angeles Rams as their backup quarterback before being outbid by Seattle Seahawks; ultimately, Jimmy Garoppolo was signed to fill this void left open in free agency by Carson Wentz’s departure from team.
