As expected, the quarterback-needy Washington Commanders have traded for a new signal-caller. No, it's not San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo. Many assumed Washington might be interested in the 30-year-old veteran passer, but instead, the team opted for Indianapolis Colts quarterback Carson Wentz, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.
The NFL insider reports that the Commanders are believed to have surrendered two third-round picks for Wentz.
Colts are trading QB Carson Wentz to Washington for a package of packs that is thought to include two third-round picks, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/KYb7rj5ozw
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 9, 2022
Schefter reported on-air that the Commanders inquired about Garoppolo but ultimately didn't feel comfortable about making that move.
That crosses one team off the list of potential suitors for Garoppolo. However, the Colts could be interested in the 49ers quarterback, along with the Pittsburgh Steelers and others. NFL Media's Ian Rapoport expects Indianapolis to be "in the mix" for Garoppolo. That would reunite Garoppolo with defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, who the 49ers traded to the Colts in 2020.
The #Colts have now entered the QB race again, and expect them to be in the mix for Jimmy Garoppolo, as well.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 9, 2022
Before dealing for Wentz, the Commanders were among the betting favorites to pursue Garoppolo. San Francisco is still expected to part ways with Garoppolo before the draft, possibly even before the start of the new league year on March 16.
Complicating things is the fact that Garoppolo reportedly underwent successful shoulder surgery on Tuesday and won't throw for an estimated 16 weeks. As a result, any interested team won't have Garoppolo available until late June or early July.
Most expect the 49ers to go with last year's No. 3 overall pick, Trey Lance, as their starting quarterback in 2022.