As the 2024 NFL season approaches, all 32 teams are busy making last-minute adjustments to their rosters, dealing with the difficult decisions that come with cutdowns and final trades. The quarterback position, always under the spotlight, has had its fair share of dramatic changes this year, with several notable names finding themselves without a team.
Detroit Lions Shakeup
The Detroit Lions made a surprising move by releasing a former Indiana standout who stands at an impressive 6-6 and weighs 230 pounds. Studying under respected coaches like Doug Pederson and Kyle Shanahan during his previous stints with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers, the quarterback has nonetheless struggled to find playing time, throwing just 14 passes over the past six seasons. Hendon Hooker has emerged as the clear backup to Jared Goff, marking the end of this quarterback's time with the Lions.
Windy City's Quarterback Battle
Over in Chicago, the Bears released Brett Rypien, who had a notable preseason where he showcased strong chemistry with wide receiver Collin Johnson. Despite a solid debut, he was outshined by Tyson Bagent, who secured the backup spot behind Caleb Williams, Chicago's starting quarterback. Rypien began his NFL journey with the Denver Broncos, where he managed a respectable 2-1 record as a starter.
Desmond Ridder's Short Stay in Arizona
The Arizona Cardinals decided to part ways with Desmond Ridder, who had been acquired in an offseason player-for-player trade. Initially drafted in the third round by the Atlanta Falcons in 2022, Ridder's stint in Arizona was short-lived. The Cardinals have opted to go with Clayton Tune as the backup for their star quarterback, Kyler Murray.
Changes in New England
Another notable release occurred in New England, where Bailey Zappe was waived. Drafted in the fourth round by the Patriots in 2022, Zappe had a mixed record of 4-4 as a replacement starter, accumulating 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions over his first two years. The Patriots' current quarterback stable includes Jacoby Brissett, Drake Maye, and Joe Milton III, signaling a complete overhaul and a fresh direction for the team's future.
CJ Beathard's End in Jacksonville
CJ Beathard’s time with the Jacksonville Jaguars concluded with an injury settlement. Beathard, a third-round pick by the San Francisco 49ers in 2017, had a solid stretch in the 2022 season where he threw six touchdown passes without any interceptions. However, his tenure in Jacksonville saw him making only one start over three years. The Jaguars have acquired Mac Jones via trade, adding yet another layer to the ongoing quarterback carousel.
As these cuts and trades illustrate, the quarterback position is highly volatile and subject to change, even after initial rosters are set. With the 2024 season about to kick off, teams are pulling out all the stops to ensure they have the right signal-callers on their depth charts, ready to navigate the unpredictable journey that lies ahead.