As the 2024 NFL season looms closer, the league's 32 teams are in a flurry, finalizing their rosters and making tough decisions on last-minute cuts and trades. Several notable quarterbacks have found themselves as cutdown casualties, reflecting the harsh realities of professional football.
Detroit Lions' Moves
Among the recent roster changes, the Detroit Lions released a former Indiana product who stands at 6-6 and 230 pounds. This quarterback, who has had an enlightening journey studying under notable coaches Doug Pederson and Kyle Shanahan with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers respectively, saw limited action on the field, having thrown just 14 passes over the past six seasons. Despite his potential, he has found his journey with the Lions at an end, with Hendon Hooker securing the backup role to Jared Goff.
Chicago Bears' Adjustments
The Chicago Bears also made significant adjustments, releasing Brett Rypien. Rypien, who showcased promising chemistry with wideout Collin Johnson during his solid preseason debut, couldn't surpass Tyson Bagent for the backup spot behind Caleb Williams. Rypien’s NFL career kicked off with the Denver Broncos, where he compiled a 2-1 record as a starter. However, it seems his stint with the Bears has come to an abrupt conclusion.
Arizona Cardinals' Decisions
In Arizona, Desmond Ridder was released by the Cardinals. Ridder, originally a third-round pick of the Atlanta Falcons in 2022, had been acquired in a player-for-player trade earlier this offseason. Despite Ridder's efforts, Clayton Tune managed to secure the backup job behind Kyler Murray, leaving Ridder searching for new opportunities.
New England Patriots' Surprise
The New England Patriots also made headlines by waiving Bailey Zappe. Drafted in the fourth round by the Patriots in 2022, Zappe put together a mixed performance with an even 4-4 record as a replacement starter, tallying 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions over his first two years. With quarterbacks Jacoby Brissett, Drake Maye, and Joe Milton III on their depth chart, the Patriots decided to part ways with Zappe.
Jacksonville Jaguars' Settlement
CJ Beathard's tenure with the Jacksonville Jaguars ended under different circumstances, as he reached an injury settlement with the team. A third-round pick by the San Francisco 49ers in 2017, Beathard filled in efficiently during the 2022 season, throwing six touchdowns without an interception. However, his journey in Jacksonville saw only one start over three years. With the acquisition of Mac Jones via trade, Beathard's departure was inevitable.
As teams streamline their rosters to the required 53 players, the NFL's landscape continues to evolve with each strategic move. Quarterbacks, often the face of these teams, frequently find themselves at the center of these crucial decisions. The upcoming season will undoubtedly be shaped by these final roster changes, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting football year.