As the NFL gears up for the 2024 season, all 32 teams are intensively working to finalize their rosters, leading to a flurry of last-minute cuts and trades. This year, a notable pattern has emerged—the release of several high-profile quarterbacks, some of whom were once considered promising early-round draft picks.
The Detroit Lions' Decision
The Detroit Lions made waves by releasing a towering former Indiana product who stands at 6-6 and weighs 230 pounds. Despite his considerable physical attributes, his NFL career has been modest, having thrown only 14 passes over the past six seasons. His journey included stints with the Philadelphia Eagles and the San Francisco 49ers, where he studied under renowned coaches Doug Pederson and Kyle Shanahan. The Lions ultimately decided to secure Hendon Hooker as the backup to Jared Goff, bringing this quarterback's time with Detroit to an abrupt end.
Shuffling in Chicago
Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears opted to part ways with Brett Rypien. Rypien showcased a solid preseason debut, showcasing impressive downfield chemistry with wide receiver Collin Johnson. However, in a highly competitive environment, rookie Tyson Bagent outshone Rypien, clinching the backup spot behind Caleb Williams. Rypien, who initially began his NFL journey with the Denver Broncos, compiled a 2-1 record as a starter with the team. His performance in Chicago, however, wasn’t sufficient to secure his position amid the intensifying pre-season competition.
Arizona Cardinals’ Choice
The Arizona Cardinals also made headlines by releasing Desmond Ridder, who was acquired in a player-for-player trade earlier this offseason. Originally a third-round pick of the Atlanta Falcons in 2022, Ridder found himself on the outside looking in as Clayton Tune secured the backup job behind star quarterback Kyler Murray. Despite the Cardinals' earlier investment in Ridder, the team chose to move in a different direction.
New England Patriots’ Quarterback Conundrum
The New England Patriots waived Bailey Zappe, a fourth-round draft pick from 2022. Zappe had an even 4-4 record as a replacement starter, throwing 11 touchdowns against 12 interceptions over his first two years. The Patriots’ current roster includes quarterbacks Jacoby Brissett, Drake Maye, and Joe Milton III, which suggests they are banking on a mix of veteran presence and young potential as they head into the new season.
CJ Beathard's Departure from Jacksonville
Over in Jacksonville, CJ Beathard’s tenure with the Jaguars concluded with an injury settlement. Originally a third-round pick by the San Francisco 49ers in 2017, Beathard had a relatively quiet tenure with the Jaguars, making just one start over three years. Notably, he threw six touchdowns with zero interceptions while filling in during the 2022 season. The Jaguars’ decision to acquire Mac Jones via trade rendered Beathard surplus to requirements, culminating in his release.
This pre-season has been marked by surprising roster moves—particularly around quarterbacks—reflecting the ever-evolving nature of the NFL. Teams are constantly adjusting their rosters, strategizing to create the most competitive units possible. As seen with the Lions, Bears, Cardinals, Patriots, and Jaguars, decisions on quarterbacks often have far-reaching implications, impacting team dynamics and individual careers alike. The narrative of these roster changes is crucial to understanding how teams position themselves for a successful NFL season.