As the NFL's 2024 season approaches, all 32 teams face the daunting task of finalizing their rosters, involving difficult decisions and last-minute trades. This year, a noteworthy trend has emerged: a number of early-round draft quarterbacks have become cutdown casualties, reflecting the fierce competition and ever-changing dynamics within the league.
Detroit Lions' Drastic Moves
One of the more surprising moves came from the Detroit Lions, who released a former Indiana product towering at 6-6 and weighing 230 pounds. Despite his potential, his journey with the Lions has ended, mainly overshadowed by new talent. This decision solidifies Hendon Hooker's position as the backup to Jared Goff.
Intriguingly, this newly released player had trained under renowned coaches Doug Pederson and Kyle Shanahan during his stints with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers. Nevertheless, his on-field experience has been minimal, with just 14 passes thrown over the past six seasons.
Brett Rypien's Rollercoaster
The Chicago Bears also made a significant cut, releasing Brett Rypien. Initially, Rypien had impressed during preseason by showcasing his downfield chemistry with wideout Collin Johnson. However, Tyson Bagent's superior performance ultimately secured him the backup spot behind Caleb Williams.
Rypien's NFL journey began with the Denver Broncos, where he compiled a respectable 2-1 record as a starter. Yet again, in a league defined by its competitiveness, past achievements often aren't enough to secure a spot on a roster.
Desmond Ridder's Short-Lived Stint
Desmond Ridder, another quarterback making headlines, was released by the Arizona Cardinals. Having been acquired in a player-for-player trade earlier this offseason, Ridder's tenure with the Cardinals proved short-lived as Clayton Tune secured the backup job behind Kyler Murray.
Originally a third-round pick by the Atlanta Falcons in 2022, Ridder's journey serves as a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in the NFL.
Patriots Waive Bailey Zappe
The New England Patriots made waves by waiving Bailey Zappe, a fourth-round pick in 2022. Over his two-year stint, Zappe maintained an even 4-4 record as a replacement starter, throwing 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. These statistics reflect a mixed performance that likely influenced the Patriots' decision.
Currently, the Patriots' quarterback room consists of Jacoby Brissett, Drake Maye, and Joe Milton III, indicating a strategic shift as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
CJ Beathard's Departure
The Jacksonville Jaguars' roster also saw upheaval with the injury settlement release of CJ Beathard. Drafted in the third round by the San Francisco 49ers in 2017, Beathard threw six touchdowns and zero interceptions while filling in during the 2022 season. Despite this impressive performance, his tenure with the Jaguars was marred by limited opportunities, managing only one start in three years.
In a corresponding move, the Jaguars acquired Mac Jones via trade, signaling their intent to strengthen the quarterback position ahead of the new season.
As the preseason comes to a close, these roster changes underscore the relentless competition and fluid nature of NFL teams striving for success. While some quarterbacks face uncertainty, others seize their moment, epitomizing the ever-evolving saga of professional football.