Dec 20, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) and Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) shake hands after an NFL football game at O.co Coliseum. The Packers defeated the Raiders 30-20. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
NFL: Green Bay Packers at Oakland Raiders
(New York, NY) — The Las Vegas Raiders agreed to sign quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo earlier this week, officially closing the door on the Derek Carr era.
However, news broke today that the team seemingly explored all other options.
Appearing on the “Pat McAfee Show” on Wednesday, Rodgers revealed that his intention is to play for the New York Jets. However, there were other teams that had an interest in acquiring the four-time MVP. That list included the Raiders, who reportedly called the Packers about a potential trade for Rodgers. After no success, Las Vegas shifted their attention elsewhere.
“The Raiders did indeed call the Packers to check on QB Aaron Rodgers’ availability this offseason, but when a trade couldn’t come together, the Raiders signed Jimmy Garoppolo,” The Athletics Jeff Howe tweeted out. The NFL Insider added, “The Raiders were also among the teams that called the Bears about the No. 1 pick before the Panthers completed their deal. They never entered serious negotiations, but it’s clear the Raiders have explored every avenue for a QB.”
It’s difficult to blame the Raiders for doing their homework, but the team evidently settled on the veteran signal caller (Garoppolo.) Las Vegas also holds the 7th pick in the years upcoming NFL draft, giving them a surplus of options.
Garoppolo signed a 3 year, $72 million contract with the Raiders on Tuesday, including a $45 million guaranteed.
