The Denver Broncos have signed rookie quarterback Brett Rypien to their 10-man practice squad, the team announced Monday. Rypien was cut last week to make room for Drew Lock on the 53-man roster.
Lock was activated from injured reserve and started against the Los Angeles Chargers, leading the team to a 23-20 win in Week 13.
Rypien cleared waivers over the weekend and now returns to Denver. Rypien played college football at Boise State and signed with the Broncos in May after going undrafted in April. He failed to make Denver’s 53-man roster in September but was added to the practice squad.
Rypien spent the first eight weeks of the season on the practice squad before being promoted to serve as Brandon Allen’s backup in Week 9. Rypien served as Allen’s backup for three games before Lock took over. Allen will now serve as the team’s No. 2 quarterback.
The Broncos had an open spot for Rypien on the practice squad after offensive lineman Corey Levin left the team to sign with the Chicago Bears. Because he was only on the practice squad, Levin was eligible to join Chicago’s active roster.
