Should the 49ers sever ties with quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo? That’s what many are saying after Garoppolo's struggles and injury-marred 2020 season, but NBC Sports Bay Area analyst Donte Whitner doesn’t believe that’s the case.
“I couldn’t disagree more,” Whitner said.
“First off, Garoppolo has a 26-9 record as a starter in the league -- that’s a 74 percent winning percentage, which is fourth among active quarterbacks.”
With our All Access Daily newsletter, stay in the game with the latest updates on your beloved Bay Area and California sports teams!
SIGN UP HERE Garoppolo is behind Kansas City Chiefs star Patrick Mahomes, reigning MVP Lamar Jackson and arguably the greatest QB of all time in Tom Brady.
“Great company, huh?” Whitner said.
Download and subscribe to the 49ers Talk Podcast
San Francisco 49ers
Find the latest San Francisco 49ers news, highlights, analysis and more with NBC Sports Bay Area and California.
Garoppolo left Week 8’s 37-27 loss to the Seattle Seahawks early with a high ankle sprain. He is expected to miss about six weeks.
This was just another setback for the quarterback who helped bring the 49ers to last season’s Super Bowl, and was one quarter shy of taking home the Lombardi Trophy before the 49ers fell apart.
Garoppolo has been good, but hasn't quite been able to take his game to the next level. Does that mean the front office should rid of him?
Whitner doesn't think so, adding that the 49ers' injuries to skill position players, including Garoppolo himself, have caused a lack of chemistry that can be rectified when everyone is healthy.
The 49ers' offense depends on its running game, play-action passes and making sure Jimmy G has easy throws. It worked in 2019, and it can work again in 2021.
RELATED: 49ers must decide if Jimmy Garoppolo is long-term answer
Time will tell whether the 49ers agree, but for now, Whitner doesn’t like the idea of letting Garoppolo go.