DONE DEAL: Jimmy Garoppolo Signs 4-Year, $105 Million Contract With the Detroit Lions as Their New Starting Quarterback
DETROIT, MI — May 13, 2025
In a bold and stunning move, the Detroit Lions have officially announced the signing of veteran quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo to a 4-year, $105 million contract, ushering in a new era for the franchise just weeks after their playoff run ended in disappointment.
The deal, which includes $65 million guaranteed, cements Garoppolo as the Lions’ new starting quarterback,
effectively signaling a major shift in Detroit’s quarterback room and a potentially shocking departure or reduced role for Jared Goff, who led the team to consecutive playoff appearances.
Garoppolo Chance
Garoppolo, 33, spent last season as a backup with the Los Angeles Rams after being released by the Las Vegas Raiders midseason due to performance issues and injury setbacks.
Though he didn’t see significant action during the regular season, league insiders have said his leadership and experience impressed Detroit’s front office during private workouts and discussions in recent weeks.
“This is a fresh start for me,” Garoppolo said during his introductory press conference at Ford Field. “Detroit is building something special, and I want to be a part of it. I’ve got a chip on my shoulder, and I’m here to win football games.”
Lions Brass Speaks Out
Lions General Manager Brad Holmes praised Garoppolo’s veteran presence and playoff experience, noting his appearances in multiple NFC Championship Games and a Super Bowl with the San Francisco 49ers.
“Jimmy’s poise, toughness, and knowledge of the game are exactly what we need right now,” said Holmes. “We believe he gives us a real shot to take the next step as a franchise.”
Head Coach Dan Campbell added, “He fits our culture — gritty, smart, and battle-tested. We’re excited to see what he can do in the Motor City.”
Implications for Jared Goff
The signing casts immediate doubt on the future of Jared Goff, who has played well for Detroit but is entering the final year of his contract. Sources indicate that Goff and his camp were “blindsided” by the move and are now weighing their options, including a potential trade or a request for release.
One league executive described the situation as “tense” and said the team may be trying to avoid paying Goff an extension north of $40 million per year. Garoppolo, by contrast, is a more affordable option with starting pedigree — giving the Lions flexibility as they continue to build around their young core.
Fan Reaction: Mixed but Hopeful
Lions fans flooded social media with mixed reactions. While some expressed confusion about the sudden quarterback shake-up, others embraced Garoppolo as a “low-risk, high-reward” move for a team desperate to take the next step toward Super Bowl contention.
“He’s a winner. Maybe not flashy, but he knows how to lead a team,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Another posted: “Trading Goff for Jimmy G? Bold move, Detroit. Let’s hope it pays off.”
Contract Breakdown
- Length: 4 years
- Total value: $105 million
- Guaranteed: $65 million
- Incentives: Up to $15 million for playoff wins, Pro Bowl appearances, and a Super Bowl berth
- Cap hit (2025): $19.8 million
What’s Next for the Lions?
With the Garoppolo signing now official, all eyes turn to how the Lions handle Goff and whether they will attempt to trade him before the season starts. Teams like the Raiders,
Buccaneers, and Commanders — all with uncertain quarterback situations — could be potential suitors.
Meanwhile, Garoppolo is expected to immediately assume the QB1 role when OTAs begin next week. Reports suggest that he has already reached out to top Lions receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams to begin building chemistry.
Bottom Line: The Lions are betting big that Jimmy Garoppolo can recapture the magic that once took the 49ers within minutes of a Super Bowl title. Whether this gamble pays off will define Detroit’s trajectory for the next several seasons — and possibly Dan Campbell’s future as head coach.
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