The Browns are apparently open to trading for Jimmy Garoppolo should Deshaun Watson’s suspension be extended.
That’s the latest from Browns reporter Mary Kay Cabot, who reported on Thursday that Cleveland’s interest in Jimmy G “significantly increases” if Watson misses more than six games. That seems highly likely, considering the league is appealing the six-game suspension and lobbying for Watson to miss at least the entire year.
The runs counter to Cabot’s reports earlier the season that the Browns never seriously considered trading for Garoppolo.
Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk has said on KNBR last wekk that any appeal from the NFL is likely to go through, though could be delayed if the NFL Players Association files a lawsuit, which they are expected to do.
The Browns backup is Jacoby Brissett, with Joshua Dobbs and Josh Rosen competing for the third string job. Reports are that Cleveland is comfortable with Brissett as a stop gap, but do not consider him a long-term solution.
Garoppolo is expected to be released by the 49ers on Aug. 30, the day before his $24.2 million deal would become guaranteed, if they cannot find a trade partner beforehand. It is unclear if any other teams are interested in Garoppolo, who has resumed throwing after offseason shoulder surgery.