New York Jets: 3 potential replacements for Zach Wilson

1. Jimmy Garoppolo

Back in 2017, the San Francisco 49ers traded for Jimmy Garoppolo, who had won two Super Bowls as a reserve for the New England Patriots. Garoppolo had success right away, going 5-0 as the starter to close out the season.

He suffered a season-ending injury in 2018 but returned to lead the Niners to a 13-3 record in 2019 as well as a Super Bowl berth. After another injury-plagued season, he again found success in 2021 as San Francisco fell just short of another trip to the Super Bowl.

While he has had success with the 49ers, they’re ready to turn the page and start Trey Lance. Garoppoo is now free to look for a new home via trade, and one option could have opened up due to Zach Wilson’s unfortunate injury.

One thing that makes this one seem likely is the relationship Jimmy G already has with the Jets coaching staff. He knows head coach Robert Saleh from his time as the defensive coordinator in San Francisco. Garoppolo is also very familiar with offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur, who was the passing game coordinator for the first four seasons he was in San Francisco.

The two had a lot of success together and Saleh knows his competitiveness after going against him every day in practice for the same amount of time.

Garoppolo might not be a perfect player but it’s hard to find a better option at this point in the year than what he presents.