As the 2024 NFL season approaches, every team across the league is making pivotal roster decisions, often involving difficult cuts and trades. Notably, the quarterback position has seen a significant shake-up, with several high-profile names becoming cutdown casualties.
Detroit Lions' Surprising Move
Among the surprise releases is a quarterback from the Detroit Lions, a former Indiana product who stands at an imposing 6-6 and 230 pounds. Despite his potential and having studied under notable coaches like Doug Pederson and Kyle Shanahan during his time with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers, he has thrown just 14 passes over the past six seasons. With Hendon Hooker securing the backup role to Jared Goff, the Lions saw fit to part ways with the quarterback whose journey with them ends here.
Chicago Bears' Preseason Standout Waived
The Chicago Bears also made headlines by releasing Brett Rypien. Rypien had a notable preseason debut, demonstrating solid downfield chemistry with wideout Collin Johnson. However, it was Tyson Bagent who ultimately outshined Rypien for the backup spot behind Caleb Williams. Rypien, who began his NFL career with the Denver Broncos, had compiled a 2-1 record as a starter during his stint in Denver, yet this was not enough to secure his spot on the Bears' roster.
Desmond Ridder's Short Tenure with Cardinals Ends
The Arizona Cardinals made a decisive move by releasing Desmond Ridder. Ridder, originally a third-round pick by the Atlanta Falcons in 2022, was acquired by the Cardinals in a player-for-player trade earlier this offseason. With Clayton Tune securing the backup position behind Kyler Murray, Ridder found himself on the outside looking in.
New England Patriots' QB Competition Intensifies
The New England Patriots decided to waive Bailey Zappe, who had been drafted in the fourth round by the Patriots in 2022. Over his first two years, Zappe displayed an even 4-4 record as a replacement starter, accumulating 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. This decision leaves the Patriots focusing on quarterbacks Jacoby Brissett, Drake Maye, and Joe Milton III as they move forward into the new season.
CJ Beathard and the Jaguars Part Ways
Finally, the Jacksonville Jaguars and CJ Beathard ended their tenure together with an injury settlement. Beathard, originally a third-round pick by the San Francisco 49ers in 2017, had shown promise by throwing six touchdowns and zero interceptions while filling in during the 2022 season. Despite this, he managed only one start during his three years in Jacksonville. The Jaguars, who have recently acquired Mac Jones via trade, decided that parting ways with Beathard was the best option moving forward.
These roster moves underscore the harsh realities of the NFL where even early-round draft picks and players with commendable past performances aren't guaranteed a spot. As teams finalize their 53-man rosters, the NFL landscape continues to shift, leaving fans eagerly anticipating how these changes will impact the upcoming season.