As the 2024 NFL season draws near, all 32 teams are in the throes of finalizing their rosters, making tough decisions on last-minute cuts and trades. Among the notable casualties, several quarterbacks have found themselves on the outside looking in as teams trim down to the required 53 players. Even after the initial cutdown, rosters remain in constant flux, with teams releasing, adding, and adjusting players to find the best fit for their season objectives.
Detroit Lions' Bold Moves
The Detroit Lions made a significant move by releasing a former Indiana product who stands at an imposing 6-6 and 230 pounds. Despite his potential and size, his journey with the Lions came to an abrupt end. This quarterback had previously studied under esteemed coaches Doug Pederson and Kyle Shanahan during his stints with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers. However, his on-field opportunities have been limited, throwing a mere 14 passes over the past six seasons.
In his place, rookie Hendon Hooker has secured the backup role to starter Jared Goff. Hooker's robust performances during the pre-season have earned him the trust of the coaching staff and the chance to step up if Goff faces any setbacks during the season.
Chicago Bears' Strategic Cuts
The Chicago Bears also made headlines by releasing Brett Rypien despite his solid preseason debut. Rypien showcased notable downfield chemistry with wideout Collin Johnson, making his case for the backup role. However, it was Tyson Bagent who ultimately outshined Rypien for the spot behind starter Caleb Williams. Began his NFL journey with the Denver Broncos, Rypien compiled a 2-1 record as a starter, but the competition in Chicago proved too stiff.
Arizona Cardinals' Quarterback Shuffle
Desmond Ridder's time with the Arizona Cardinals was short-lived, as the team decided to release him. Originally a third-round pick by the Atlanta Falcons in 2022, Ridder was acquired in a player-for-player trade earlier this offseason. Despite his potential, Clayton Tune secured the backup job behind star quarterback Kyler Murray, leading to Ridder's release.
Patriots' Surprising Release
The New England Patriots also made a surprising move by waiving Bailey Zappe. Drafted in the fourth round by the Patriots in 2022, Zappe had shown promise 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 the roster, the Patriots evidently felt they could afford to let Zappe go.
Jacksonville Jaguars' Injury Concerns
In Jacksonville, CJ Beathard's tenure with the Jaguars ended with an injury settlement. Originally a third-round pick by the San Francisco 49ers in 2017, Beathard demonstrated solid performance while filling in during the 2022 season, throwing six touchdowns and zero interceptions. However, his injury concerns and limited starting opportunities—only one start during his three years in Jacksonville—led to the Jaguars acquiring Mac Jones via trade, leaving Beathard to find opportunities elsewhere.
As teams across the league continue to make decisions and adjustments, the fluidity of NFL rosters is on full display. The release of these quarterbacks underscores the fierce competition and the tough choices that teams must make to build their ideal rosters for the season ahead. With the regular season just around the corner, the coming weeks will undoubtedly bring more surprises and roster moves as franchises seek the perfect blend of talent and depth to achieve their goals.