2 min read • April 28, 2022
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With the NFL Draft fast approaching, most eyes and speculation are on the vast array of prospects.
Another key storyline every draft is the prospect of draft day trades.
Two starting quarterbacks currently without a home are Baker Mayfield and Jimmy Garoppolo, who are both coming off injury riddled seasons.
Garoppolo underwent surgery to fix rotator cuff damage in his right shoulder on March 8, less than two months ago.
Mayfield underwent surgery to repair a torn labrum in his non-throwing shoulder on Jan. 19.
While early reports projected that Garoppolo could begin throwing by July 4, that is no guarantee.
“There are a lot of steps in between now and then, but I think we’ll be ready by then,” Garoppolo said when asked if he will be ready by training camp.
In early March, Dr. David Chao provided more clarity on why Garoppolo's timeline remains murky.
If Garoppolo had a partial thickness tear, he could fit that 16-week recovery timeline, but if it's a full thickness tear his recovery would likely be longer than that and could extend into OTAs, Chao said.
He is rehabbing his throwing shoulder away from the team, reportedly upon recommendation from his surgeon.
Mayfield, the former Browns quarterback, is in a better position medically, according to our panel of Pro Football Docs. His non-throwing shoulder surgery will likely have no downward effect on his value.
In fact, his contract will surely be more of a concern than his previous shoulder injury.
The 27-year-old is owed $18.9 million next season under his fifth-year rookie option.
He is a free agent after the 2022 season.
Garoppolo is under contract for 24.2 million next season and the 49ers can save $25 million in cap space by trading him.
Despite the difference in contract, and with both quarterback's readiness in mind, the Pro Football Docs believe Mayfield has a higher chance to be traded on draft day.
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