The Denver Broncos’ understudy at quarterback will continue his career in Denver after roster moves placed him on our practice squad for a 3rd straight year. Brett Rypien, signed as an undrafted free agent in 2019 behind Drew Lock, has started each of his seasons on the practice squad, but has been called up to the active roster both times so far. Though the QB3 spot may seem like a lower-impact position, the Broncos are fortunate that he’s made it through the waiver wire back to Denver.
The third-year QB out of Boise State has been a valuable part of this group as he brings a high football IQ to meetings, practice, and the sidelines. He’s also won a game for the team, starting Week 4 vs the Jets and throwing for 242 yards, 2 TDs, and 3 picks in a 37-28 victory on TNF.
Two of those picks were completely avoidable plays where he tried to throw the ball out of bounds but was toe-tapped by opposing defensive backs who were credited interceptions. He did show some good flashes of promise as both a game manager and downfield passer in his lone start.
Brett Rypien goes up top to Denver's first round pick.
— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) October 2, 2020
Jerry Jeudy collects his first career TD. Broncos lead.
(via @NFL)pic.twitter.com/Afw1wFffEP
Building on that experience into year three, Rypien will serve as a valuable reserve behind Bridgewater and Lock.
His bright football mind is a big asset to this team, and he strikes me as a quarterback in the mold of Gary Kubiak, who is a cerebral backup with a promising future in football. His presence in this QB group elevates the processing ability of the whole unit, and he’s been a key factor in Drew Lock’s development as well as his own.
There is the possibility of him being poached by some passer-hungry team, but as of yet he is entrenched in Denver as QB3 and will continue to contribute from that role. He’s stuck with Denver so far into his 3rd year on the practice squad.
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I do still believe it is possible for Denver to sign a fourth passer to serve as an emergency quarterback if and when Rypien is promoted to the active roster, but for now, he represents the Denver Broncos’ depth behind Teddy & Drew.