The 2024 NFL season is just around the corner, and all 32 teams are in the midst of solidifying their rosters, with the final cuts and trades drawing significant attention. As expected, some surprising decisions have been made, particularly concerning quarterbacks who have found themselves on the wrong side of these roster moves.
Quarterbacks Facing the Axe
In a flurry of recent activities, a number of early-round draft quarterbacks have been waived, highlighting the unrelenting competition in the NFL. Among the notable names is a former Indiana product who stood tall at 6-6 and 230 pounds. Despite his potential, he had thrown only 14 passes over the past six seasons, eventually losing his spot with the Detroit Lions. He had previously studied under esteemed coaches Doug Pederson and Kyle Shanahan during his stints with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers. With Hendon Hooker securing the backup role to Jared Goff, this quarterback’s journey with the Lions has come to an end.
Shifting Dynamics in Chicago and New England
The Chicago Bears also made headlines by releasing Brett Rypien, a decision that could not have been easy after a promising preseason debut. Rypien showcased his downfield chemistry with wideout Collin Johnson, but it was Tyson Bagent who ultimately outshined him, securing the backup spot behind Caleb Williams. Rypien, who began his NFL journey with the Denver Broncos, had compiled a 2-1 record as a starter during his time there.
In New England, the Patriots waived Bailey Zappe, a fourth-round pick from the 2022 draft. Zappe had an even 4-4 record as a replacement starter, with 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions over his first two years. The move comes as the Patriots look to streamline their quarterback roster, which includes Jacoby Brissett, Drake Maye, and Joe Milton III. Zappe’s release signals a potential shift in strategy as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
Uncertain Futures in Arizona and Jacksonville
The Arizona Cardinals made waves by releasing Desmond Ridder, originally a third-round pick by the Atlanta Falcons in 2022. Ridder was acquired earlier this offseason in a player-for-player trade but ultimately lost the backup job to Clayton Tune, who will now sit behind Kyler Murray. Ridder’s brief tenure with the Cardinals underscores the fickle nature of NFL rosters and the ever-present need for teams to adapt quickly.
Meanwhile, CJ Beathard’s time with the Jacksonville Jaguars ended following an injury settlement. Beathard, a third-round pick by the San Francisco 49ers in 2017, threw six touchdowns and zero interceptions while filling in during the 2022 season. Despite this decent performance, the Jaguars acquired Mac Jones via trade, marking the end of Beathard’s three years in Jacksonville, during which he made only one start.
Constant Flux of NFL Rosters
The recent quarterback movements are a reminder of the relentless scrutiny and constant turnover that define NFL rosters. Teams are always on the lookout for the best possible lineup, even if it means making tough decisions on players who have shown potential. As the regular season looms, these changes are a testament to the high-stakes world of professional football, where only the best survive.
The NFL landscape is ever-evolving, and these recent roster moves mark just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting and unpredictable season. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these decisions play out on the field.