The 2024 NFL season is on the horizon, and the annual roster shakeups have begun. All 32 teams are deep into the arduous process of finalizing their lineups, leading to a wave of last-minute cuts and trades. This year, several notable quarterbacks have found themselves as cutdown casualties, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the NFL.
Turmoil in Detroit
The Detroit Lions have made significant moves, parting ways with a former Indiana product who stands at an imposing 6-6 and 230 pounds. Despite his potential, this quarterback's journey with the Lions has concluded after six seasons that saw him throw only 14 passes. His experience under coaches Doug Pederson and Kyle Shanahan with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers couldn't secure his spot on the roster. With Hendon Hooker emerging as the backup to Jared Goff, the former Indiana standout’s time in Detroit has come to an end.
Chicago's Quarterback Shuffle
In Chicago, the Bears have released Brett Rypien, despite a solid preseason debut that showcased his chemistry with wideout Collin Johnson. Rypien’s performance wasn’t enough to outshine Tyson Bagent, who has secured the backup spot behind Caleb Williams. Rypien, who began his NFL journey with the Denver Broncos, compiled a 2-1 record as a starter during his tenure there. His release from the Bears adds to the ongoing narrative of teams making bold decisions in quest of the perfect roster balance.
Turnover in Arizona
Desmond Ridder has become another notable quarterback looking for a new team after being released by the Arizona Cardinals. Ridder, initially acquired in a player-for-player trade earlier this offseason, lost the battle for the backup job to Clayton Tune, who will sit behind Kyler Murray. Drafted as a third-round pick by the Atlanta Falcons in 2022, Ridder's tenure with the Cardinals was brief and highlights the continual churn within NFL rosters.
New England's Loaded Quarterback Room
Bailey Zappe’s release by the New England Patriots is another shakeup in the quarterback landscape. Drafted in the fourth round in 2022, Zappe managed a 4-4 record as a replacement starter, with 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions over his first two years. Despite those efforts, the Patriots, who currently have Jacoby Brissett, Drake Maye, and Joe Milton III on their roster, decided to part ways with Zappe, signaling a potentially new direction for the team.
Jacksonville's Injury Fallout
The Jacksonville Jaguars have also been active, releasing CJ Beathard after reaching an injury settlement. Beathard, originally a third-round pick by the San Francisco 49ers in 2017, made only one start during his three years with the Jaguars. He had a notable stint filling in during the 2022 season where he threw six touchdowns and zero interceptions. Recently, the Jaguars acquired Mac Jones via trade, which further solidified Beathard’s departure from the team.
As the final rosters begin to take shape, the frequent player movements underscore the rigorous and often ruthless nature of professional football. The upcoming season promises excitement and unpredictability as teams settle into their new configurations.