As the 2024 NFL season rapidly approaches, all 32 teams are meticulously finalizing their rosters, making pivotal decisions regarding last-minute cuts and trades. This period often results in some surprising roster changes, and this year is no exception. A handful of notable quarterbacks, many of whom were early-round draft picks, have found themselves as cutdown casualties.
Roster Changes and Quarterback Releases
Team rosters across the league are in a constant state of flux, even after the initial reduction to 53 players. Notable among these changes is the case of the Detroit Lions, who released a former Indiana product standing at 6-6 and 230 pounds. This quarterback had spent time under the tutelage of well-regarded coaches Doug Pederson and Kyle Shanahan during his NFL stints with the Philadelphia Eagles and the San Francisco 49ers. Despite his potential, his journey with the Lions has come to an end after throwing just 14 passes over the past six seasons, with rookie Hendon Hooker securing the backup role behind Jared Goff.
Similarly, the Chicago Bears made headlines with the release of Brett Rypien. Rypien, who had a solid preseason debut showcasing impressive downfield chemistry with wideout Collin Johnson, was outshined by Tyson Bagent for the backup spot behind Caleb Williams. Rypien’s NFL journey began with the Denver Broncos, where he compiled a commendable 2-1 record as a starter.
Arizona Cardinals and New England Patriots Moves
In another significant move, the Arizona Cardinals released Desmond Ridder. Ridder was initially acquired in a player-for-player trade earlier this offseason but was unable to secure a firm spot on the roster. With Clayton Tune earning the backup role behind Kyler Murray, Ridder, who was originally a third-round pick of the Atlanta Falcons in 2022, finds himself looking for new opportunities in the league.
The New England Patriots also made waves by waiving Bailey Zappe, a fourth-round draft pick from 2022. Zappe, who had balanced performances with an even 4-4 record as a replacement starter, recorded 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions over his first two years. The Patriots have solid depth at the quarterback position with Jacoby Brissett, Drake Maye, and Joe Milton III, making Zappe’s departure a strategic decision to solidify their roster.
Injury Settlements and New Acquisitions
CJ Beathard’s tenure with the Jacksonville Jaguars was notably impacted by an injury settlement. Originally a third-round pick by the San Francisco 49ers in 2017, Beathard demonstrated capability by throwing six touchdowns and zero interceptions while filling in during the 2022 season. Despite these efforts, he made only one start during his three years in Jacksonville. The Jaguars have since acquired Mac Jones via trade, signaling a fresh direction for their quarterback roster.
This season's cutdown period has indeed been rife with crucial decisions, particularly within the quarterback ranks. As teams finalize their rosters, fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing how these moves impact the upcoming season's dynamics and performance. The continuous state of flux underscores the relentless and competitive nature of the NFL, where players and franchises alike must consistently prove their worth on the field.