Raiders QB Jimmy Garoppolo clears concussion protocol, to play Monday vs. Packers

Jimmy Garoppolo will be back on the field for the Raiders on Monday night.

The Las Vegas Raiders quarterback has cleared concussion protocol, clearing the way for him to suit up at home against the Green Bay Packers, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported Friday.

The Athletic first reported the news, and Las Vegas confirmed his clearance shortly after.

“Feeling good,” Garoppolo said regarding his status. “I think we’re in a good spot. Guys had a good practice out there — good rhythm, good tempo to us. It’s about doing the little things right now, so that’s what we’re focused on.”

The 31-year-old played the duration of his team’s Week 3 loss to the Steelers, but he exhibited concussion symptoms following the contest and entered the protocol.

His concussion kept him out of last week’s defeat against the Chargers — Las Vegas’ third straight after opening the season with a win — a game that saw rookie Aidan O’Connell go 24 of 39 for 238 yards and an interception in his first-ever start.

“It was tough, but it is what it is,” Garoppolo told reporters about being sidelined for the loss. “Got to move past it at this point and focus on Green Bay.”

Even when healthy, Garoppolo has had a rocky beginning to his Raiders career. He’s completed 68.1% of his passes for 709 yards, five touchdowns and six interceptions, tied for the league lead despite the missed game. Still, his availability returns a veteran presence to the huddle with the 1-3 Raiders in dire need of a prime-time win.

What’s less clear is if his favorite target will be able to go alongside him. Davante Adams, the recipient of 43.6% of Garoppolo’s targets, sat out two practices this week with a shoulder injury and is considered questionable after a limited session on Saturday.

If Adams misses, Jakobi Meyers is in line to become Las Vegas’ primary wide receiver, and running back Josh Jacobs will carry an even greater load than usual.

The three-time All-Pro’s presence against his former team would surely boost the Raiders’ chances of rediscovering the win column.

Either way, though, Jimmy G being back under center is good news.