As the 2024 NFL season approaches, the landscape for several teams is changing rapidly as they finalize their rosters. Notable quarterbacks have found themselves on the list of cutdown casualties, a testament to the ruthless nature of the sport's business side. Even after teams trim their rosters to 53 players, the flux continues, with last-minute cuts and trades shaping the final lineups.
Detroit Lions Shake-Up
The Detroit Lions have made a surprising move, releasing a former Indiana quarterback who stood at an impressive 6-6 and 230 pounds. With stints under esteemed coaches like Doug Pederson and Kyle Shanahan during his time with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers, the quarterback had substantial mentoring but limited playing time, throwing only 14 passes over six seasons. Hendon Hooker secured the backup role to Jared Goff, pushing the former Indiana product out of the Lions' plans.
His journey in Detroit has ended before it could significantly impact, reflecting the harsh reality for many players fighting for a limited number of spots.
Chicago Bears Opt for Youth
In Chicago, the Bears have released Brett Rypien despite his solid preseason performance. Rypien showcased his downfield chemistry with wideout Collin Johnson, but it wasn't enough to secure the backup quarterback position behind Caleb Williams. Tyson Bagent outshined Rypien, clinching the coveted backup role.
Rypien, who began his NFL journey with the Denver Broncos, had a brief but noteworthy stint, compiling a 2-1 record as a starter. However, the business of the sport dictated that the Bears move on, focusing on younger talent to support their starting quarterback.
Cardinals' Quarterback Changes
Another significant move came from the Arizona Cardinals, who released Desmond Ridder. Acquired in a player-for-player trade earlier in the offseason, Ridder didn't do enough to secure his place on the team. Clayton Tune will serve as the backup behind Kyler Murray, relegating Ridder to free agency.
Originally a third-round pick by the Atlanta Falcons in 2022, Ridder's time with the Cardinals was fleeting. His release adds to the ongoing narrative of quarterbacks frequently shifting teams in search of stability and opportunity.
Patriots' Surplus of Signal-Callers
The New England Patriots waived Bailey Zappe, a fourth-round draft pick from 2022. Zappe's NFL journey has been a mixed bag; he posted a 4-4 record as a replacement starter, throwing 11 touchdowns against 12 interceptions over two seasons. Given the Patriots' current quarterback depth, featuring Jacoby Brissett, Drake Maye, and Joe Milton III, Zappe’s release was another tough decision in the ever-competitive world of the NFL.
Jaguars Part Ways with Beathard
The Jacksonville Jaguars have released CJ Beathard, ending his tenure with an injury settlement. Beathard, originally a third-round pick by the San Francisco 49ers in 2017, had a respectable showing last season, throwing six touchdowns without an interception while filling in. However, injuries and the Jaguars' acquisition of Mac Jones via trade sealed his fate.
Beathard's stint with the Jaguars was marked by limited opportunities, with only one start over three years in Jacksonville. His departure underscores the fragility of an NFL career, especially for players trying to establish themselves in backup roles.
The whirlwind of roster changes right before the start of the NFL season highlights the volatility and high stakes inherent in professional football. Team executives must make calculated decisions, often parting ways with capable players as they assemble the most competitive roster possible.