Insider links surprising AFC team to Jimmy Garoppolo

Although Ryan Tannehill is under contract for 2023, it’s still not clear if he will be the Tennessee Titans starting quarterback in 2023.

And with new general manager Ran Carthon having ties to the San Francisco 49ers, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport believes the first-year GM could bring in a QB he knows and trusts.

“I’m not so sure [Malik Willis starts if Tannehill is gone],” Rapoport said Thursday on “The Pat McAfee Show.” “Let’s say with Tannehill they do decide to trade him or cut him — I don’t even know. If they decide he’s not the starter, Ran Carthon came from San Francisco…Jimmy G might be a possibility.”

Carthon spent six seasons in San Francisco, serving as the director of pro personnel in 2017 when the 49ers traded for Garoppolo from the New England Patriots. 

The 31-year-old QB compiled a 31-14 record as SF’s starter, throwing for 13,599 yards, 82 touchdowns and 42 interceptions while leading the 49ers to an NFC West title, two NFC Championship Games and a Super Bowl appearance during his tenure.

“[Garoppolo’s] not going to be crazy, crazy expensive,” Rapoport added. “I do think he’ll be attractive, and I do think he’ll be a starter.”