Midway through the season, the Patriots made a move that surprised a lot of people- trading Jimmy Garoppolo to the San Francisco 49ers for a measly second round pick. Based on the fact the Pats shipped off Jacoby Brissett to the Colts, one would assume that meant they wanted to keep Garoppolo long-term. Never assume with Belichick making the decisions. It seems like every single year a move is made by the Patriots and everyone thinks, “Why on earth did they do that? That was stupid” but every time it just happens to work itself out. Even though that is the case, this one feels different and I don’t like it.
When asked about the success of the 49ers, Tom Brady had nothing but good things to say about the situation, which obviously comes off as no surprise. In an interview with WEEI, Brady was quoted as saying “Any time you’re in a winning environment that definitely helps and I think guys really enjoy that. You take what you can and try to use it in other places if that’s where you go. Like I said, I think what they’re doing is a credit to them. I don’t think anyone should take credit for what those guys have accomplished.” The 49ers win over the Jaguars also impacted the AFC playoff picture, securing a first-round bye for the Patriots. I’m sure Brady wasn’t too upset by that.
The way Garoppolo was able to come in to a team that was getting embarrassed on a weekly basis and turned around the entire culture has been very impressive. There have been many arguments circulating around about whether the 49ers would be a playoff team is Garoppolo started at the beginning of the season. While I am not totally convinced, I think there is a chance they could have at least four more wins (Cardinals X2, Colts, Redskins). Does that get them into the playoffs? This would be a huge week 17 for them if that was the case.
Being a Patriots fan, there hasn’t been many times where I would actively root for another team. This has definitely changed since the trade, and I hope Garoppolo can carry on his success, whether or not he comes back to New England. Keep rockin’ Jimmy G.
Office Chatter 