Quarterback Carousel in Full Swing as NFL Teams Finalize 2024 Rosters
As the 2024 NFL season approaches, the league's 32 teams are in the final stages of trimming their rosters to the required 53-player limit. This period is often marked by difficult decisions and unexpected movements, particularly among quarterbacks—a position that has seen considerable shake-up in recent days.
Early-Round Draft Picks on the Move
Several quarterbacks who were once considered potential franchise cornerstones are now facing uncertain futures. Teams have released a number of early-round draft picks, raising eyebrows across the league.
The Detroit Lions, for instance, have cut ties with a former Indiana product who stands at 6-6 and weighs 230 pounds. Despite his imposing physical attributes and having studied under respected coaches Doug Pederson and Kyle Shanahan during his stints with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers, he's thrown just 14 passes over the past six seasons. With Hendon Hooker securing the backup role to Jared Goff, his journey with the Lions has come to an end.
Chicago Bears and Brett Rypien Part Ways
The Chicago Bears have released Brett Rypien, a quarterback who managed to turn heads during his preseason debut. Rypien showcased notable downfield chemistry with wideout Collin Johnson, but it wasn't enough to secure the backup spot behind Caleb Williams. That role was claimed by Tyson Bagent, whose performance outshined Rypien's.
Rypien began his NFL career with the Denver Broncos, where he posted a 2-1 record as a starter. Despite his solid start, his stint with the Bears concludes on a disappointing note.
Desmond Ridder's Short Tenure with the Cardinals
Another notable quarterback on the move is Desmond Ridder, now released by the Arizona Cardinals. Ridder was brought in earlier this offseason in a player-for-player trade but was unable to secure his place on the team. Originally a third-round pick of the Atlanta Falcons in 2022, Ridder's shot at serving as a backup to Kyler Murray has been thwarted by Clayton Tune, who won the position battle.
Patriots Waive Bailey Zappe
Bailey Zappe, drafted in the fourth round by the New England Patriots in 2022, has also found himself in the list of released quarterbacks. Zappe had mixed results during his time with the Patriots, compiling a 4-4 record as a replacement starter. Over his first two years, he tallied 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. With the Patriots now including quarterbacks Jacoby Brissett, Drake Maye, and Joe Milton III, Zappe became the odd man out.
CJ Beathard Exits Jacksonville
The Jacksonville Jaguars’ quarterback situation has also seen changes. CJ Beathard’s tenure with the team ended with an injury settlement. Originally a third-round pick by the San Francisco 49ers in 2017, Beathard managed to throw six touchdowns without a single interception while stepping in during the 2022 season. His time in Jacksonville was marred by limited opportunities, making only one start over three years. The Jaguars have since acquired Mac Jones via trade, further signaling a fresh direction for their quarterback room.
As the initial wave of roster cuts concludes, it’s clear that the quarterback position remains in constant flux. Teams are making strategic decisions not only based on past performance but also potential future contributions. Yet, for the players affected, these decisions mark both an end and a new beginning, as they seek opportunities elsewhere in the league.