Jim Trotter discusses Jimmy Garoppolo’s future; Steve Wyche suggests a 49ers backup option

Last month, general manager John Lynch sounded confident that Jimmy Garoppolo would be his starting quarterback in September. The New England Patriots reportedly inquired about Garoppolo before signing Cam Newton this past week and were told by the San Francisco 49ers that their quarterback was not available right now.

Garoppolo is the 49ers' starting quarterback, and that will only change if a better option presents itself, as is the case with any position on the roster.

Andrew Siciliano recently asked Jim Trotter on NFL Network if Jimmy Garoppolo is certain to be the 49ers' quarterback during the upcoming season.

"Absolutely not. No," Trotter responded. "Look, they have confidence in Jimmy, and if he's their guy, they'll go forward with him. Remember, they went to a Super Bowl with him. But the reality is the 49ers are always looking to upgrade, if possible, and I have a strong suspicion that if Deshaun Watson becomes available for a trade, that they will definitely be kicking the tires on that and looking to make that upgrade, as will other teams.

"But as of now, Jimmy is their guy, but you never write anything in stone at this point, Andrew."

While Lynch did seemingly commit to Garoppolo for 2021, he did note that the team needs to bolster the backup spots, should its starter miss more time. Garoppolo has missed 23 games over the past three seasons due to injuries, including 10 games in 2020.

Steve Wyche of NFL Network believes one option could be former Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Tyrod Taylor, who is about to become an unrestricted free agent.

"[I]f they can get a veteran player like Ty Taylor, the former Chargers quarterback, who is now a free agent," said Wyche, "he is somebody who could be there in case Jimmy Garoppolo gets hurt again or even if they make a move, if they make a big splash, try to go after Deshaun Watson. He is someone who is so vital in a locker room and that quarterback room.

"Again, he may not be a top-tier free agent, but he can provide stability at backup quarterback."

H/t to Patrick Tulini for the finds.