The Facts: Had the San Francisco 49ers and Garoppolo been unable to agree to a restructured contract this summer, the rival Los Angeles Rams were lurking as a possible destination for the veteran quarterback, league sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Diehards Line: Garoppolo and the Rams had the makings of a deal if he was released by the Niners, who were unaware that the defending Super Bowl champions were looking into signing him, according to Schefter's sources. The 49ers didn't learn about the Rams' interest until after they agreed with Garoppolo on a one-year deal worth up to $16 million, sources told Schefter. The Rams, who were eyeing Garoppolo as a legitimate backup option to Matthew Stafford, continually have demonstrated the capability to acquire high-profile, skilled veterans such as Odell Beckham Jr. or Bobby Wagner despite seemingly not having roster or salary-cap space. The Rams were tight against their cap, and it would have been challenging to fit Garoppolo into their salary structure. For most of the offseason, a divorce seemed imminent between Garoppolo and the Niners, who were set with Trey Lance to take over at quarterback. But according to Garoppolo, "things kind of fell into place" with the Niners in late August, meaning he will back up Lance to start the season.