Deal puts Garoppolo contract in new light
Quarterback Garoppolo could benefit as free agency approaches
We’re a week from NFL free agency, at least in terms of official signings, as well as departures from a 49ers’ roster facing significant change. This mailbag is dedicated to that theme via questions from my Instagram and Twitter huddles:
Big Ben took a pay cut. What about Jimmy doing the same?
This perplexes me, in terms of how some diminish Jimmy Garoppolo’s value, or, more to the point, his market value. Dak Prescott just signed for $40 million annually, and his next three seasons will earn him $126 million, far more than Garoppolo’s $86 million from 2018-20. I’d bet Washington, New England and Chicago gladly would pay him $25 million for 2021, and I’ll double down to predict Garoppolo clears $25 million annually on his next deal, wherever that is. Shanahan has defended Garoppolo’s price tag, for now.
What is taking so long for Juszczyk, Williams to re-sign?
Deadlines move money. Check back by next Wednesday. Or sooner. Williams indicated “Y’all barking up the right tree” when, on Tuesday night’s Cris Collinsworth Podcast, 2020 teammate Richard Sherman predicted Williams would remain with the 49ers for five or six years. Williams told us reporters in January the 49ers were his first choice but was tempted by free agency: “I’ve yet to see a franchise left tackle go to the open market.”
Juszczyk called free agency a “tricky thing” and, having tasted it in 2017, he enjoys being courted. The Pro Bowl fullback has spent his offseason bouncing from Mexico to New York to now the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Can cutting Richburg or Ford save us some cap room?
Yes. Their uncertain health situations complicate their departures, though only Ford has a 2021 injury guarantee of some $11 million. Cutting ties would save the 49ers $5.7 million with Ford and $4.5 million with Richburg, according to OvertheCap.com.
If Kenny Golladay hits Free Agency, how do you think his play style fits with the current 49ers roster?
A 6-foot-4 receiver doesn’t exactly fit this 49ers regime’s profile, not to say that height and potential production isn’t needed. Golladay played only five games last season because of a hip injury, and, sadly, that fits the 49ers’ profile of gambling on veterans with red flags. I’d be highly surprised if they make a play for a top-tier receiver. It’s Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk, George Kittle and a tobe-named slot man for 2021.
What off season move do you think Lynch and Shanahan will make that will surprise the fan base the most?
Anything not involving a quarterback! The Faithful has spent all offseason with a wandering eye away from Garoppolo. Enhancing his supporting cast would be a great move, and while we all expect that to translate as offensive line help, making a play for an accomplished tight end (see: Zach Ertz, Hunter Henry) to pair with George Kittle would be a pleasant surprise.
Who do you think we franchise tag?
The 49ers did not use their franchise/transition tag on anyone for the second straight year, primarily because Trent Williams’ contract clause made him exempt. Nine other clubs used theirs, and perhaps the most desirable tagged player from a 49ers standpoint was Washington guard Brandon Scherff.
Carlos Dunlap, yes?
A proven pass rusher is always a sought commodity. How much money he’s seeking should dictate where he lands. I wouldn’t expect the 49ers to get in a bidding war for a veteran bouncing to his third team in less than a year.