As the 2024 NFL season approaches, all 32 teams are in the final stages of solidifying their rosters. This period is marked by rigorous evaluations, last-minute cuts, and strategic trades. Among the most significant roster adjustments this offseason are the surprise releases of several notable quarterbacks.
Quarterback Carousel: Roster Moves
In Detroit, the Lions made a difficult decision in releasing a former Indiana product. The towering quarterback, standing at 6-6 and 230 pounds, had spent time under the tutelage of esteemed coaches Doug Pederson and Kyle Shanahan during his previous stints with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers. Despite his extensive experience, he had thrown just 14 passes over the past six seasons. With Hendon Hooker securing the backup role to Jared Goff, the Lions decided to part ways with him.
The Chicago Bears also made headlines by cutting Brett Rypien. Rypien, who had begun his NFL journey with the Denver Broncos, showcased his talent during the preseason with an impressive display of downfield chemistry with wideout Collin Johnson. However, it was Tyson Bagent who ultimately outshined Rypien, earning the backup spot behind Caleb Williams. Rypien, with a 2-1 record as a starter during his time with the Broncos, saw his journey with the Bears come to an end.
In Arizona, the Cardinals released Desmond Ridder, who was acquired in a player-for-player trade earlier this offseason. Ridder, originally a third-round pick of the Atlanta Falcons in 2022, found himself edged out by Clayton Tune for the backup role behind Kyler Murray.
Patriots’ Quarterback Shuffle
The New England Patriots also made a significant move by waiving Bailey Zappe, their fourth-round draft pick in 2022. Zappe, who balanced an even 4-4 record as a replacement starter over his first two years, recorded 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Despite his potential, the Patriots decided to move forward with quarterbacks Jacoby Brissett, Drake Maye, and Joe Milton III.
Jacksonville's Strategic Adjustments
Over in Jacksonville, the Jaguars ended CJ Beathard's tenure with an injury settlement. Initially a third-round pick by the San Francisco 49ers in 2017, Beathard's stint in Jacksonville was marred by limited playing time. He made only one start during his three years with the Jaguars but managed to throw six touchdowns and zero interceptions filling in during the 2022 season. The Jaguars' acquisition of Mac Jones via trade was the final nail in the coffin for Beathard's position on the roster.
As rosters around the league remain dynamic, it's clear that the decisions made in the lead-up to the 2024 season are far from set in stone. Teams continue to fine-tune their lineups, aiming to strike the perfect balance of talent and strategy for a successful campaign. For the quarterbacks who have faced the ax, the end of this chapter may well be the beginning of another opportunity elsewhere in the league.