2017 NFL Draft: Which QBs are Needy Teams Connected To?
By Erik Lambert
![Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) celebrates during the fourth quarter against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) celebrates during the fourth quarter against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/900f213c2d9753693eb7f6cd5f9e1fe356154c66922e7e4a2f8093e6e377a206.jpg)
San Francisco 49ers: Jimmy Garoppolo
One can say this for the San Francisco 49ers. When it comes to the off-season, they’re anything but boring. They just got done shocking the football world when they hired former Pro Bowl safety and current FOX broadcaster John Lynch as their next general manager. He will be paired with long-time offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan as the new head coach to make one of the more fascinating combinations in recent memory. It also may have a hand in cementing their QB options.
Garoppolo was rumored in connection to San Francisco weeks ago but that was when Josh McDaniels was considered the favorite for head coach. Why now with Lynch in charge? Likely due to two factors. Lynch would prefer to use the #2 overall pick on defense, given his own background. Also he understands the value of giving an offensive head coach an experienced quarterback under center. Similar to what Tampa Bay did back in 2002 with Brad Johnson and Jon Gruden. With Kirk Cousins likely out of reach, Garoppolo is the next best option.