Chargers rival might need to tank in 2023 after latest quarterback news
By Mike Luciano
The Los Angeles Chargers have the misfortune of playing in what is considered by many to be the toughest division in football in the grueling AFC West. With the mighty Chiefs and retooled Broncos all looking to make it to the playoffs, every divisional week will be a tough game.
The Las Vegas Raiders might have Davante Adams and a brand new quarterback in Jimmy Garoppolo, but they are still expected by many to finish last in the division. The defense still needs some work, and Josh McDaniels has won just 11 of his last 39 games as a head coach.
Garoppolo was supposed to fix everything, but the latest injury update is very concerning. Jimmy G failed his physical with the Raiders initially, leading to a revised contract that allows them to ditch him if his foot does not heal. If that doesn't happen, Vegas will still head into the year beat up at quarterback.
While it's a shame to see injuries continue plaguing Garoppolo, Chargers fans can at least spin this as another way to laugh at the Raiders. There is a good chance the Raiders do not improve upon their previous draft position after the Garoppolo era has already failed to get out of the blocks cleanly.
Remember when the Raiders delayed Jimmy Garoppolo's introductory press conference and everyone said there was nothing to see here? There was something to see. He failed his physical, and his contract was dramatically reworked because of it. https://t.co/qCbeI8OfMc
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) May 28, 2023
Chargers: Raiders might tank after Jimmy Garoppolo news
If Garoppolo is unable to go due to his foot problem, the Raiders' depth chart consists of a seldom-used veteran that got outplayed by a fourth-rounder last season in Brian Hoyer and another rookie in Aidan O'Connell who many thought was drafted far too early.
The best possible outcome for Chargers fans could be an unsuccessful tank. While Caleb Williams and Drake Maye going to Vegas might sting, any team with Adams and Josh Jacobs on offense is going to have a high level of baseline competency.
This is what happens when you mismanage the Derek Carr situation. For all his faults, Carr was a durable, above-average quarterback that is now plying his trade in New Orleans. Garoppolo might be damaged goods, which is great news for Justin Herbert and the Chargers.
Per PFT, Garoppolo failed his physical. If he doesn't pass a physical by the time the season starts, the #Raiders could move on at no cost. https://t.co/JBIT6htUVO
— Tashan Reed (@tashanreed) May 28, 2023
Garoppolo and the Raiders might actually be an opponent worth watching if everyone can get healthy and on the same page, but that is now where Las Vegas stands right now. The Jimmy G injury crisis could be used for the Chargers' benefit, as it is one less team to worry about.