Broncos Sign Long Snapper Kevin McDermott to Practice Squad

Dec 29, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; San Francisco 49ers long snapper Kevin McDermott (47) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Just when you thought the Broncos might have their roster all set to go, you were wrong.

After filling out the 53-man roster and 10-man practice squad, the Broncos made a move Tuesday to sign former San Francisco 49ers long snapper Kevin McDermott to the practice squad, according to a report first from the Denver Post.

This move may have been brought on at least in terms of replacing a practice squad player by a report from Vic Lombardi that former sixth round pick Vinston Painter, an offensive lineman, was claimed off the Broncos’ practice squad to the Cleveland Browns’ active roster.

McDermott was beaten out at 49ers camp this year by Kyle Nelson, who is also a fourth tight end for the Niners. He has a reputation as one of the best in the game, even as a young player, so his release from San Francisco was a bit surprising.

In addition to a Tuesday workout with the Broncos, McDermott worked out with the Patriots on Monday, according to the Denver Post.

The Broncos will have this young man compete with Aaron Brewer, who is the incumbent in Denver. A former UDFA out of San Diego State, Brewer was signed to the Broncos in 2012 as an undrafted free agent.

It is really interesting to have the Broncos bring in another long snapper. Teams don’t generally stash those away, so perhaps the Broncos feel like McDermott is an upgrade over Brewer. If that’s the case, there could be more roster moves forthcoming.