As the 2024 NFL season approaches, teams across the league are making crucial roster decisions. All 32 franchises are finalizing their rosters, often resulting in surprising last-minute cuts and trades. Among the notable developments are the moves involving several quarterbacks who have been released or traded away.
Quarterback Casualties
One of the significant cutdown casualties is a former Indiana product released by the Detroit Lions. Standing at 6-6 and weighing 230 pounds, this quarterback had previously played under esteemed coaches Doug Pederson and Kyle Shanahan during his time with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers. Despite these high-profile stints, he had only thrown 14 passes over the past six seasons. His journey with the Lions recently came to an end when Hendon Hooker secured the backup role to Jared Goff.
In Chicago, the Bears decided to release Brett Rypien. Rypien had a strong preseason, showcasing impressive downfield chemistry with wide receiver Collin Johnson. However, he was ultimately outshined by Tyson Bagent for the backup spot behind Caleb Williams. Rypien began his NFL journey with the Denver Broncos, where he compiled a 2-1 record as a starter.
Desmond Ridder, another quarterback who faced an uncertain future, was released by the Arizona Cardinals. Ridder had been acquired in a player-for-player trade earlier in the offseason but was unable to secure a long-term position. Originally a third-round pick of the Atlanta Falcons in 2022, Ridder was cut as Clayton Tune secured the backup job behind Kyler Murray.
The New England Patriots also made headlines by waiving Bailey Zappe. Drafted in the fourth round by the Patriots in 2022, Zappe had an up-and-down tenure with the team. He posted a balanced 4-4 record as a replacement starter, tallying 11 touchdowns against 12 interceptions over his first two seasons. With the Patriots having quarterbacks Jacoby Brissett, Drake Maye, and Joe Milton III, Zappe's release marks a shift in the team's quarterback depth strategy.
Maneuvering in Jacksonville
Another significant quarterback move occurred in Jacksonville, where CJ Beathard's tenure concluded with an injury settlement. Originally a third-round pick by the San Francisco 49ers in 2017, Beathard had a solid stint with the Jaguars, throwing six touchdowns and zero interceptions while filling in during the 2022 season. However, he made only one start in his three years with Jacksonville. The Jaguars subsequently acquired Mac Jones via trade, signaling a new direction for the team's quarterback roster.
Constant Flux in Rosters
It's clear that team rosters remain in constant flux, even after the initial cutdown to 53 players. The release of several early-round draft quarterbacks underscores the fluid nature of NFL team management as franchises strive to find the optimal mix of talent and fit. Whether due to performance, potential, or unforeseen circumstances, the decisions to release or retain players are driven by a myriad of factors that can dramatically alter the landscape of an NFL team's season.
As the season looms nearer, the final compositions of these rosters will become more apparent. The journey for these quarterbacks does not end with their release, as other opportunities may arise, whether with other NFL teams, in different roles, or in alternative leagues. For now, the notable releases prompt a moment's reflection on the ever-changing dynamics of professional football and the human elements behind these critical decisions.
These shifts and moves serve as a reminder of the unpredictability and competitive nature of the NFL, where careers can pivot in an instant and where every pass, every play, and every game can redefine a player's journey. As the 2024 season dawns, eyes will remain fixed on how these players evolve and how the teams recalibrate their strategies in pursuit of success.