As the 2024 NFL season looms, all 32 teams are in the throes of finalizing their rosters, making tough decisions on last-minute cuts and trades. Among the most notable casualties from these cutdowns are several quarterbacks who once held promise but now find themselves searching for new opportunities.
Quarterback Cutdown Casualties
In a surprising move, the Detroit Lions released their former Indiana product, a towering presence at 6'6" and 230 pounds. Despite having trained under esteemed coaches like Doug Pederson and Kyle Shanahan during his time with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers, his professional journey has been underwhelming. Over six seasons, he has attempted just 14 passes. Hendon Hooker has secured the backup role to Jared Goff, effectively ending this quarterback's stint with the Lions.
The Chicago Bears also made a notable cut, releasing Brett Rypien. Rypien had shown promise in his preseason debut, demonstrating solid downfield chemistry with wideout Collin Johnson. However, rookie Tyson Bagent outshined Rypien, earning the backup spot behind Caleb Williams. Rypien’s NFL journey began with the Denver Broncos, where he compiled a 2-1 record as a starter. His future now remains uncertain.
Desmond Ridder, another quarterback, faced a similar fate with the Arizona Cardinals. Acquired in a player-for-player trade earlier this offseason, Ridder was originally a third-round pick of the Atlanta Falcons in 2022. However, Clayton Tune secured the backup role behind Kyler Murray, leading to Ridder’s release.
Patriots' Quarterback Shuffle
The New England Patriots made waves by waiving Bailey Zappe, a fourth-round draft pick in 2022. In his initial two years, Zappe recorded an even 4-4 record as a substitute starter, with 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Presently, the Patriots have a trio of quarterbacks: Jacoby Brissett, Drake Maye, and Joe Milton III. This move signifies a shift in the Patriots' strategy, opting for a different quarterback dynamic for the upcoming season.
CJ Beathard's Exit from Jacksonville
In Jacksonville, CJ Beathard's tenure with the Jaguars concluded through an injury settlement. Initially drafted in the third round by the San Francisco 49ers in 2017, Beathard showed flashes of potential. During the 2022 season, he threw for six touchdowns with zero interceptions, although he only made one start over three years. The Jaguars have since acquired Mac Jones via trade, marking the end of Beathard’s chapter with the team.
These quarterback moves illustrate the ever-changing dynamics of NFL rosters. Teams are continually evaluating and re-evaluating their lineups to ensure the optimal mix of talent and chemistry. As the final rosters take shape, the released quarterbacks will be looking for new opportunities to continue their careers in the league.