Jimmy G: “I Wanted to Play for the Browns” in 2017
A recent report has sent ripples through the Dawg Pound, revealing that quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo actively wished to join the Cleveland Browns during the tumultuous 2017 season. This striking revelation sheds light on a significant “what if” moment that could have dramatically altered the course of our beloved franchise’s history.
A Missed Opportunity in a Dire Season
The 2017 Cleveland Browns, under head coach Hue Jackson, were struggling towards an eventual 0-16 season. The quarterback position was a revolving door of uncertainty, with rookies DeShone Kizer and veterans like Cody Kessler failing to provide stability. Fans were desperate for a glimmer of hope, a consistent presence under center.
Amidst this despair, the New England Patriots, with Tom Brady still at the helm, made backup Jimmy Garoppolo available for trade. Garoppolo was then a highly regarded prospect, showing potential in limited starts. What many didn’t know, but do now, is that Garoppolo himself had his sights set on Cleveland.
Speaking on a recent podcast, the now-Las Vegas Raiders quarterback explicitly stated, “I wanted to go to the Browns.” This sentiment underscores a powerful moment of convergence: a talented young quarterback eager for a starting role and a team in dire need of one. The stage seemed set for a significant turning point.
The Unfulfilled Trade and Belichick’s Choice
Why the Deal Collapsed
Despite Garoppolo’s desire, the trade never materialized with the Browns. Patriots head coach Bill Belichick reportedly preferred not to trade Garoppolo within the AFC, viewing the Browns as a potential future competitor despite their record. He famously sent Garoppolo to the San Francisco 49ers for a second-round pick instead.
Whispers also suggested the Browns’ front office, then led by Sashi Brown, was reluctant to meet the Patriots’ asking price, valuing future draft capital over an immediate, high-priced quarterback. This decision, in hindsight, remains a significant point of discussion among Browns fans.
To put the quarterback situation into perspective, consider the alternatives the Browns were juggling during that pivotal 2017 season:
| Quarterback | Team in 2017 (Post-Trade) | Key Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Jimmy Garoppolo | San Francisco 49ers | Immediate 5-0 start for 49ers |
| DeShone Kizer | Cleveland Browns | Starter for 15 games, 0-15 record |
| Cody Kessler | Cleveland Browns | Backup, played in 3 games |
| Brock Osweiler | Cleveland Browns | Started 2 games, traded before season end |
What Could Have Been: An Alternate Browns Reality
The “what if” scenarios surrounding Garoppolo’s potential arrival are endless and fascinating for any Browns fan. What if a stable, capable quarterback had arrived in Cleveland mid-season? Garoppolo immediately led the 49ers to a 5-0 record upon his arrival, demonstrating his ability to elevate a team. Could he have prevented the Browns’ winless season, injecting much-needed confidence and competence into the struggling roster?
A different quarterback trajectory might have altered Hue Jackson’s fate and the coaching staff, potentially leading to earlier stability. The team’s drafting strategy might have shifted, impacting selections like Baker Mayfield. Could a more competitive Browns team have accelerated their rebuild and reached contention sooner, changing the franchise’s narrative?
The immediate success Garoppolo found with the 49ers, culminating in a Super Bowl appearance just a few seasons later, highlights the caliber of player the Browns almost acquired. It’s a stark reminder of the fine margins in professional sports and how single decisions can reverberate for years.
Looking Back and Forward for the Dawg Pound
While the story of Jimmy Garoppolo’s near-arrival in Cleveland is a compelling footnote in Browns history, it ultimately remains a “what if.” The Browns embarked on a different path, eventually drafting Baker Mayfield, who led the team to its first playoff win in decades, and now have Deshaun Watson at the helm, representing the team’s current long-term vision.
Garoppolo, meanwhile, carved out a successful career with the 49ers before moving to the Raiders. Both player and team have moved forward, making their own histories. For the Dawg Pound, this revelation serves as a poignant reflection on a pivotal moment and the unpredictable journey of building a championship contender.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When did Jimmy Garoppolo want to play for the Browns?
He expressed a desire to join the Cleveland Browns during the 2017 NFL season. - Why didn’t the trade happen with Cleveland?
Reports suggest Patriots coach Bill Belichick preferred not to trade Garoppolo within the AFC, and the Browns were reportedly hesitant to meet the asking price, sending him to the San Francisco 49ers instead. - Did Garoppolo actually say he wanted to join the Browns?
Yes, he recently confirmed on a podcast, stating, “I wanted to go to the Browns.” - How did Garoppolo perform immediately after being traded to the 49ers?
He led the San Francisco 49ers to an impressive 5-0 record in the games he started immediately after joining them in 2017.
While the past holds fascinating “what ifs,” the Browns’ focus remains firmly on their current roster and future aspirations. This story is a reminder of how close the team came to a different history, yet every twist and turn has shaped the formidable franchise we root for today, eagerly anticipating what comes next.
Jimmy G wanted Browns in 2017
