The San Francisco 49ers have seemingly committed to quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo—again. A report from Evan Lazar of CLNS Media Network reports that the New England Patriots inquired about Garoppolo before re-signing Cam Newton to a one-year deal. Bill Belichick and company were told that the 49ers quarterback, whom they traded to San Francisco in 2017, isn't available.
Of course, Lazar added that Garoppolo isn't available "right now," which, of course, created some additional chatter.
There has been speculation that the 49ers might be interested in Sam Darnold. The New York Jets might seek to offload the quarterback if they draft a quarterback with the No. 2 overall pick. It's expected they will.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport joined KNBR on Friday morning and discussed the possibility of the former No. 3 overall pick landing with Kyle Shanahan and the 49ers.
"I've asked. I've talked to sources," Rapoport said on the Murph & Mac show. "The response I've received on the Sam Darnold situation is, 'Do not expect the 49ers to be in it.' Maybe it could change, I guess. Theoretically, anything is possible. I never rule anything out in this ridiculous, stupid world.
"I do not expect the 49ers, as of my knowledge right now, to be in it. Could that change somehow? I don't see why, but possibly."
Rapoport previously told Rich Eisen that he doesn't expect a divorce between Garoppolo and the 49ers. He reiterated that on Friday morning and explained why.
"Like I always say to you guys, are we sure that Sam Darnold is better than Jimmy Garoppolo if both are on the field and healthy?" Rapoport asked. "Just think about what they are, right? I mean, Jimmy's a little [older] and obviously more expensive, but both have shown flashes. Both can get really hot. Both have dealt with injuries that make your head want to explode. And both have flashed potential that you just want to see them continue. And if you're going to trade for someone, why would you trade for basically the same guy?"
You can listen to the entire conversation with Rapoport below.