Brett Rypien Injury News & Updates
Keep up with the latest injuries from the Colts vs Chiefs game on Sunday with our National Football League injury report.Oct 14, 2025
Getting look from Indy
The Colts signed Rypien to their practice squad Tuesday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Rypien was with Minnesota during training camp, but he was cut in late August and subsequently joined Cincinnati's practice squad. The veteran QB was signed to the Bengals' active roster after Joe Burrow (toe) went on IR in mid-September, but Rypien got into just one game with the Bengals, playing three offensive snaps without attempting a pass in Week 3. Rypien then was released by Cincinnati after the team acquired Joe Flacco in a trade. The Colts had a need for QB depth after placing Anthony Richardson (eye) on injured reserve Monday, though it will likely be Riley Leondard who steps in as Daniel Jones' backup this Sunday against the Chargers.
Oct 7, 2025
Cut by Cincinnati
The Bengals released Rypien on Tuesday.
ANALYSIS
The Bengals shook up their quarterback depth chart Tuesday, cutting Rypien from the active roster and Mike White from the practice squad while adding Joe Flacco in a trade with the Browns.
Sep 16, 2025
Promoted from practice squad
The Bengals will sign Rypien off their practice squad Tuesday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
With Joe Burrow set to undergo surgery to address a Grade 3 turf toe injury and likely to remain out for at least three months, the Bengals will add Rypien to the roster to serve as the top backup to new starter Jake Browning. Rypien is on track to be active for Sunday's game in Minnesota, but his performance in practice over the ensuing weeks could determine whether he sticks around in the No. 2 role for the entirety of Burrow's absence. The Bengals added Mike White and Sean Clifford to their practice squad Tuesday, and either could eventually challenge Rypien for the top backup gig once they get up to speed with the playbook.
Aug 27, 2025
Heads to Cincy's practice squad
Rypien signed with Cincinnati's practice squad Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
Rypien spent training camp with the Vikings, but he'll head to greener pastures in an organization with a less crowded quarterback depth chart. He'll be the next man up should anything happen to Joe Burrow or backup Jake Browning.
Aug 24, 2025
Cut following Wentz signing
The Vikings released Rypien on Sunday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Rypien had been fourth on Minnesota's QB depth chart throughout camp, but for a brief moment it looked like he could move up when the team traded Sam Howell to Philadelphia on Sunday morning. However, that move was quickly followed by the Vikings' signing of veteran Carson Wentz, and Minnesota has opted to move on from Rypien with rookie Max Brosmer claiming the No. 3 QB spot. Rypien could draw interest from another team looking to add veteran depth at the quarterback position.
Aug 23, 2025
Roster spot in jeopardy
Rypien completed seven of 14 passes for 62 yards, no touchdowns and one interception in Friday's 23-13 preseason loss to the Titans.
ANALYSIS
Rypien initially entered the game in the second quarter, following Max Brosmer after two offensive possessions. Rypien got the Vikings deep into Tennessee territory as halftime approached, but he then threw an interception and was checked for a concussion after taking a hit on the same play. He was ultimately cleared and returned in the fourth quarter, but Rypien looks to be fourth on the depth chart as cutdown day approaches.
Jan 15, 2025
Staying in Minnesota
The Vikings signed Rypien to a reserve/future contract Wednesday, Craig Peters of the team's official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Rypien was signed by the Vikings in late August after failing to make the Bears' 53-man roster at the conclusion of training camp. He spent the entire regular season as the third-string emergency quarterback behind Sam Darnold and Nick Mullens, but Rypien was waived by Minnesota on Jan. 7 to make room on the roster for Daniel Jones. Rypien was brought back to the practice squad two days later, and now that's under a futures contract, he'll be a part of the Vikings' 90-man roster when the new league year starts March 12. That will allow him to work with Minnesota's coaching and training staff during the offseason and participate in OTAs, minicamp and training camp. Rypien has appeared in 10 regular-season games since being signed by the Broncos as an undrafted free agent in April of 2019.
Jan 9, 2025
Re-signs to practice squad
The Vikings re-signed Rypien to the practice squad Thursday.
ANALYSIS
Rypien reunites with Minnesota after having been replaced by Daniel Jones on the active roster Tuesday. The veteran signal-caller will remain available as an emergency option behind all of Sam Darnold, Nick Mullens, and Jones as the Vikings prepare for a road wild-card matchup against the Rams on Monday.
Jan 7, 2025
Let go by Minnesota
The Vikings waived Rypien on Tuesday.
ANALYSIS
Rypien has been waived to make room for quarterback Daniel Jones on Minnesota's 53-man roster. The depth signal-caller has handled an emergency role for the Vikings all season, behind Sam Darnold and Nick Mullens, but Jones has now usurped him as the No. 3 man. Rypien could resurface on Minnesota's practice squad.
Dec 29, 2024
Emergency QB again
Rypien (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Packers, Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
ANALYSIS
The QB cannot enter unless Sam Darnold and Nick Mullens exit due to injury, illness or ejection. Rypien has been playing this role all season for the Vikings, and he has yet to appear in a regular-season game.
Dec 22, 2024
Inactive as QB3
Rypien (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game versus Seattle but is available as the emergency quarterback.
ANALYSIS
Rypien will be inactive yet again for the Vikings, but he would be eligible should something happen to both Sam Darnold and Nick Mullens. The veteran quarterback has yet to see the field this year.
Dec 16, 2024
Emergency QB versus Chicago
Rypien (coach's decision) is inactive for Monday night's game versus Chicago but is available as the Vikings' emergency third quarterback, Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
ANALYSIS
Rypien will only be eligible to play should something happen to Sam Darnold and Nick Mullens. Rypien has yet to play this season.
Nov 24, 2024
Emergency QB for Week 12
Rypien (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Bears but will serve as the Vikings' emergency third quarterback.
ANALYSIS
Rypien won't count against Minnesota's gameday roster limit but will be eligible to enter the game if Sam Darnold or Nick Mullens suffer injuries Sunday. Rypien has not taken a snap yet this season.
Nov 17, 2024
Emergency QB for Week 11
Rypien (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Titans but will serve as the Vikings' emergency third quarterback.
ANALYSIS
Rypien won't count against Minnesota's gameday roster limit but will be eligible to enter the game if Sam Darnold or Nick Mullens suffer injuries Sunday. Rypien has not taken a snap yet this season.
Nov 3, 2024
Emergency quarterback again
Rypien (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday Night Football against the Colts.
ANALYSIS
Rypien is serving as the emergency third quarterback, meaning he can enter the game if Sam Darnold and Nick Mullens exit due to injury. The former Bronco and Ram has been playing this role all year for the Vikings.
Oct 24, 2024
Emergency quarterback for Week 8
Rypien (coach's decision) is inactive for Thursday's game against the Rams but will serve as the Vikings' emergency third quarterback, Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
ANALYSIS
As he's done all season, Rypien will serve as the No. 3 quarterback behind starter Sam Darnold and backup Nick Mullens. As the emergency QB, Rypien will only see the field if both Darnold and Mullens were to be injured.
Sep 8, 2024
Emergency option
Rypien (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Giants, but he will dress as the team's emergency third quarterback, Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
ANALYSIS
Rypien's role for Week 1 shouldn't come as a surprise, as he just joined the Vikings a little over a week ago, and Mullens already had the backup quarterback job secured. The Boise State product will only be able to enter the game if Sam Darnold and Nick Mullens both are injured and unable to play.
Aug 29, 2024
Joins Minnesota QB corps
The Vikings signed Rypien on Thursday, Kevin Seifert of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Rypien, who was released earlier this week by the Bears, will move into a depth role with Minnesota, in the wake of Jaren Hall having been waived by the team. Also in the Vikings' signal-caller mix are starter Sam Darnold, as well as Nick Mullens.
Aug 27, 2024
Released by Chicago
Rypien was released by the Bears on Tuesday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
The 28-year-old Rypien spent 2023 with the Rams, Seahawks and Jets before declaring free agency in March. He then signed with the Bears but was unable to beat out Tyson Bagent for QB2 duties behind No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams. Rypien went 24 of 34 passing (70.6 percent) for 335 yards and three touchdowns this preseason. It was a strong enough showing to possibly get Rypien a look elsewhere as a top backup.
Aug 2, 2024
Stellar showing in preseason opener
Rypien completed 11 of 15 passes for 166 yards with three touchdowns and no interceptions in the Bears' 21-17 preseason win over the Texans on Thursday. He added one rush for nine yards.
ANALYSIS
Rypien took over on the Bears' second possession and was masterful during his time in the game, averaging 11.1 yards per attempt while connecting with Collin Johnson (20, nine yards) and Tommy Sweeney (22 yards) for his trio of touchdown tosses. The journeyman signal-caller joined Chicago when free agency opened, and although he's generally been perceived as the No. 3 quarterback, Thursday's showing suggests he could conceivably usurp Tyson Bagent for the No. 2 job if he can put together a dazzling enough body of work this preseason.
Mar 13, 2024
Set to join Bears
Rypien agreed to terms on a one-year contract with Bears on Wednesday, pending a physical, Larry Mayer of the team's official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Rypien has made four starts and appeared in 10 games over the past four seasons, split between the Broncos and Rams. He has a 4:9 career TD:INT and will likely compete with Tyson Bagent for the backup role, be it behind Justin Fields or a rookie quarterback from the 2024 NFL Draft.
Dec 5, 2023
Moving on to New York
The Jets are signing Rypien off the Seahawks' practice squad Tuesday, Josina Anderson of CBS Sports reports.
ANALYSIS
In a corresponding move, New York is waiving Tim Boyle, which will leave Trevor Siemian, Zach Wilson and Rypien as the three quarterbacks on its active roster. Rypien has a prior relationship with offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett due to being a member of the Broncos last season, and the QB has four career starts under his belt between Denver and the Rams. In those contests, Rypien completed 77 of 131 passes for 794 yards, three touchdowns and six interceptions, recorded 13 carries for 21 yards and fumbled five times (two lost).
Nov 24, 2023
Headed back to practice squad
The Broncos reverted Rypien to the practice squad Friday.
ANALYSIS
Rypien was elevated from the practice squad in the event that Geno Smith (elbow) was unable to play. Rypien served as the emergency quarterback behind Smith and Drew Lock in Thursday's loss to the 49ers.
Nov 23, 2023
Bumped up from practice squad
Rypien was elevated from the Seahawks' practice squad Thursday ahead of their game against the 49ers, John Boyle of the Seahawks' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Rypien could still find himself inactive if Geno Smith (elbow) is able to play. However, the Boise State product's elevation will give Seattle some security at the position in case Smith is unable to suit up. Rypien signed with Seattle's practice squad Nov. 10 after he was cut by the Rams on Nov. 7.
Nov 10, 2023
Signs with Seattle
The Seahawks signed Rypien to their practice squad Friday.
ANALYSIS
Rypien was just cut by the division-rival Rams earlier this week after he didn't impress anyone while filling in for an injured Matthew Stafford (thumb) in Weeks 8 and 9, completing just 47.4 percent of his throws with zero touchdowns and two turnovers. The Seahawks might be bringing in Rypien for intel on Los Angeles.
Nov 7, 2023
Cut by L.A.
The Rams waived Rypien on Tuesday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
This is L.A.'s apparent corresponding move at quarterback after the team signed Carson Wentz earlier Tuesday. Subbing in for Matthew Stafford (thumb) this past Sunday at Green Bay, Rypien completed 13 of 28 passes for 130 yards, no touchdowns and one interception, recorded three carries for 19 yards and fumbled twice (one lost) in a 20-3 loss. The performance wasn't enough to keep Rypien in consideration for another potential start after the Rams' Week 10 bye in the event that Stafford isn't able to get healthy for their next game Sunday, Nov. 19 against the Seahawks
Nov 5, 2023
Struggles in start
Rypien completed 13 of 28 passes for 130 yards and an interception in Sunday's 20-3 loss to the Packers. He also lost a fumble.
ANALYSIS
Rypien had a rough showing while filling in for the injured Matthew Stafford (thumb). Not only did the Rams' offense not score a touchdown, but Rypien turned the ball over twice, including an interception with the game close to begin the fourth quarter. Rypien could return to his backup role if Stafford is cleared to play following Los Angeles' bye week.
Nov 5, 2023
Draws Week 9 start
Rypien will start Sunday's game against the Packers with Matthew Stafford (thumb) inactive for the contest, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
As anticipated, Stafford will end up sitting out the Week 9 game after he was unable to practice in any fashion Wednesday through Friday while recovering from a UCL sprain of the thumb on his throwing hand. Rypien, who completed five of 10 pass attempts in relief of the injured Stafford in the Rams' 43-20 loss to the Cowboys this past Sunday, will now get the chance to make the fourth start of his NFL career and his first as a member of the Rams. With Rypien under center, the Rams' offensive game plan could skew more run-heavy and limit the fantasy ceilings of pass catchers Cooper Kupp, Puka Nacua, Tutu Atwell and Tyler Higbee more than usual.
Nov 4, 2023
Slated to start for Stafford
Rypien is in line to start in place of Matthew Stafford (thumb) on Sunday at Green Bay, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
The Rams will give Stafford until Sunday morning to see if he can play through the sprained UCL in his right thumb that he sustained Week 8 in Dallas, but it appears as if he's a long shot to be available. If that comes to pass and Stafford is inactive, Rypien will lead L.A.'s offense, which would mark the fourth start of his career. In the first three as a member of the Broncos between the 2020 and 2022 seasons, Rypien completed 64 of 103 passes for 664 yards, three touchdowns and five interceptions, took 10 rushes for two yards and had two fumbles (one lost).
Oct 29, 2023
Takes over for injured Stafford
Rypien completed five of his 10 passes for 42 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions in Sunday's 43-20 loss to Dallas.
ANALYSIS
Rypien entered the game for the final play of the third quarter, relieving Matthew Stafford after he suffered a thumb injury. Rypien predictably struggled, though he did manage to lead the team to a late field goal on a drive dominated by short completions. It's possible that Los Angeles opted to hold Stafford out as a precaution given the score of the game, so it will be important to monitor the injury report leading up to a Week 9 matchup against the Packers.
Sep 14, 2023
Will join active roster
Rypien will be signed to the Rams' 53-man roster from their practice squad Thursday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Rypien will be the beneficiary of Stetson Bennet's placement on the reserve/non-football injury list, which took place Wednesday. The Boise State product will now operate as Matthew Stafford's backup beginning Sunday against the 49ers. The 27-year-old appeared in four games with the Broncos last season, completing 53 of 88 passes for 483 yards, two touchdowns and four interceptions.
Sep 11, 2023
Reverts to practice squad
Rypien has reverted to the Rams' practice squad, per the NFL's transaction log.
ANALYSIS
Although he was elevated to Los Angeles' practice squad Saturday, Rypien never endd up seeing the field. He served as Matthew Stafford's backup under center, and his services were ultimately never needed on the field. The quarterback could ultimately be called up again for Week 2 depending on Stetson Bennett's (shoulder) status.
Sep 9, 2023
Promoted to active roster
The Rams have elevated Rypien to their active roster ahead of Sunday's season opening game in Seattle.
ANALYSIS
No surprise here, as Stetson Bennett (shoulder) has been ruled out and could be heading to injured reserve. As a result, Rypien is the No. 2 option under center behind Matthew Stafford in the immediate future. The 27-year-old suited up for eight games across three seasons with the Broncos' organization prior to landing with the Rams. He managed to tally 80 completions on 130 attempts for 778 yards, four touchdowns and eight interceptions during that time.
Aug 27, 2023
Underwhelms in backup duty
Rypien completed seven of 13 passes for 67 yards and rushed once for two yards during Saturday's 41-0 preseason loss to the Broncos.
ANALYSIS
While Rypien's anemic stats under center in his final preseason action would normally be enough to call into question his security as Matthew Stafford's primary backup, Stetson Bennett had a significantly worse night, going four of nine for just 14 yards and two interceptions in his three drives. The Rams, who wanted to address their backup quarterback situation after last year's struggles with Stafford out, are arguably worse at the position than last year. While the Rams may feel inclined to keep both players on the roster initially, a dip into the free agent quarterback market may be on the horizon after mostly uninspiring play in the preseason from Rypien and Bennett.
Aug 21, 2023
Four completions in limited action
Rypien completed all four of his passes for 14 yards during Saturday's 34-17 preseason loss to the Raiders.
ANALYSIS
Rypien only entered the game for the final two drives, and mostly handed the ball off to Zach Evans. Stetson Bennett played the majority of the game, but had a much shakier performance than his previous game against the Chargers, going 15-of-24 for 142 yards and an interception. Bennett's extended play may be less a signal that he's gained an edge on Rypien for the opportunity to be Matthew Stafford's primary backup, and more likely that the Rams are trying to give the rookie extra reps and are planning on keeping both quarterbacks on the roster after last year's rotating door of ineffective backups.
Aug 13, 2023
Quiet night in Rams debut
Rypien completed three of six passes for 11 yards and rushed once for six yards during Saturday's 34-17 preseason loss to the Chargers.
ANALYSIS
It was a forgettable day for Rypien, as he ate a sack to end the first Rams' drive of the day, then overthrew Puka Nacua and had two more incompletions to finish the day with three drives and three punts. Stetson Bennett shook off some jitters in relief to put up a solid day at the helm, completing 17 of 29 passes for 191 yards and a touchdown, and while the Rams would prefer the veteran Rypien as the backup for Matthew Stafford after the rotating door of ineffective backup quarterbacks last season, the job is likely closer to a toss-up after one preseason game.
May 3, 2023
Heading to Los Angeles
Rypien and the Rams agreed to terms on a one-year deal Wednesday, Mike Klis of 9News Denver reports.
ANALYSIS
Rypien is coming off a 2022 season with Denver in which he appeared in four games and completed 53 of 88 pass attempts for 483 yards, two touchdowns and four interceptions. In Los Angeles, the 26-year-old should have the opportunity to compete with rookie fourth-round pick Stetson Bennett for the backup role behind starter Matthew Stafford.
May 3, 2023
Heading to Los Angeles
Rypien and the Rams agreed to terms on a one-year deal Wednesday, Mike Klis of 9News Denver reports.
ANALYSIS
Rypien completed 53 of 88 for 483 yards, two touchdowns and four interceptions for the Broncos last season, and will stay out west to play for the Rams. The 26-year-old should have the opportunity to compete with rookie fourth-round pick Stetson Bennett for the backup role behind Matthew Stafford.
Mar 13, 2023
Non-tendered by Broncos
Rypien will become an unrestricted free agent after the Broncos informed him that he will not be tendered, Mike Klis of 9News Denver reports.
ANALYSIS
Instead of potentially having to pay Rypien a $2.627 million dollar tender to make him a restricted free agent, Denver will let the quarterback hit the open market. The 26-year-old has operated at the second or third option at QB for the past few seasons and regardless of where he ends up, he'll be in a reserve position heading into the 2023 campaign.
Dec 22, 2022
Returning to backup role
Rypien will serve as the backup to Russell Wilson in Sunday's contest against the Rams after head coach Nathaniel Hackett confirmed that Wilson cleared the concussion protocol and will reclaim starting duties following a one-game absence, Zack Kelberman of SI.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Wilson actually cleared the five-step protocol last Friday, but his lack of practice time leading up to the Week 15 contest prompted the Broncos to hold him out of the matchup with the Cardinals. Rypien proceeded to pick up his second start of the season and guided the Broncos to a 24-15 win, completing 21 of 26 pass attempts for 197 yards, a touchdown and an interception. Though Rypien helped Denver end a five-game losing streak, he never appeared to be a serious threat to earn more starts over a healthy Wilson, given what the Broncos invested into acquiring the former Seattle quarterback this past offseason.
Dec 18, 2022
Manages Denver to victory
Rypien completed 21 of 26 passes for 197 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Sunday's 24-15 win over the Cardinals.
ANALYSIS
Rypien was filling in for the injured Russell Wilson (concussion) and managed the game effectively. He threw almost exclusively in the short areas of the field -- his longest completion went for only 19 yards -- and his lone touchdown of the game came on a three-yard touchdown toss to Eric Tomlinson midway through the fourth quarter. Wilson cleared concussion protocol ahead of Sunday's win, so it's likely that Rypien will return to a backup role for a Week 16 matchup against the Rams.
Dec 16, 2022
Named Week 15 starter
Rypien will start Sunday against the Cardinals, as Russell Wilson (concussion) has been ruled out, Aric DiLalla of the Broncos' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Wilson successfully passed concussion protocol, but the 3-10 Broncos will keep their pricey starting quarterback out in Week 15 out of an abundance of caution. As a result, Rypien will be tabbed for his second start of the season at home against a Cardinals defense that's giving up a league-high 26.8 points per game.
Dec 11, 2022
Shaky in relief Sunday
Rypien completed four of eight passes for 16 yards and a touchdown with an interception after replacing Russell Wilson (concussion) late in Sunday's 34-28 loss to Kansas City.
ANALYSIS
Entering the game with about 12 minutes left in the fourth quarter and the ball at the Kansas City 16-yard line, Rypien wrapped up the drive with a seven-yard TD strike to Jerry Jeudy. It proved to be Denver's final points of the game, however, and Rypien's subsequent possessions featured a three-and-out in which he fumbled a snap but was able to recover it, and then an INT that effectively ended the game. If Wilson's concussion keeps him sidelined in Week 15, Rypien would make his second start of the year against a Cardinals defense that was tied for last in the league in TD passes allowed coming into Week 14.
Oct 28, 2022
Shifting to backup role Week 8
Rypien will move back to the No. 2 quarterback role Sunday against the Jaguars in London with Broncos head coach Nathaniel Hackett confirming that Russell Wilson (hamstring) has been cleared to start the contest, Jeff Legwold of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
After concluding Week 8 prep with a full practice, Wilson has been deemed ready to take back the reins of the Denver offense after a one-game absence due to a hamstring strain. While Wilson was sidelined Week 7, Rypien wasn't able to uplift an already struggling Denver offense, completing just 24 of 46 pass attempts for 225 yards and an interception to go with nine yards on the ground in a 16-9 loss to the Jets.
Oct 24, 2022
Can't get offense on track
Rypien completed 24 of 46 passes for 225 yards, no touchdowns and one interception in Sunday's 16-9 loss to the Jets.
ANALYSIS
Rypien earned his second career start in the absence of Russell Wilson (hamstring), though the Broncos showed no signs of curtailing their passing volume. He started the game in promising fashion by leading Denver to a touchdown on its third offensive possession, though that was the majority of the scoring for the team on the day. Despite averaging only 4.9 yards per attempt, Rypien also managed to keep his primary pass catchers involved, as Jerry Jeudy earned 11 targets and Courtland Sutton nine. Wilson is optimistic that he'll return for a Week 8 matchup against the Jaguars, and if that's the case, Rypien will revert to his backup role.
Oct 22, 2022
Will start Week 7
Rypien is set to start the Broncos' Week 7 matchup against the Jets, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
With Russell Wilson (hamstring) sidelined, Rypien will get the starting nod for Denver. He last saw action in Week 16 of the 2021 season for the Broncos, but this will mark his first meaningful time on the field.
Aug 23, 2022
Will start Saturday
Rypien will start Saturday's preseason finale against the Vikings, Mike Klis of 9News Denver reports.
ANALYSIS
With Denver's No. 2 quarterback competition heating up heading into the 2022 campaign, Rypien will start and play for the first half of the contest. The 26-year-old signal caller will have the chance to win the backup job if he has another strong performance similar to Week 2 of the preseason, in which he completed 22 of 26 passes for 191 yards and one touchdown against the Bills. Josh Johnson, however, has been impressive in his own right and offers a lot of experience as an eight-year veteran in the league. Rypien and Johnson will each get a half to prove that they deserve to be Russell Wilson's backup when the Broncos open their season against the Seahawks on Sept. 12.
Aug 21, 2022
Shines in loss
Rypien completed 22 of 26 passes for 191 yards and one touchdown while adding nine yards on three carries in Saturday's 42-15 loss to the Bills.
ANALYSIS
Rypien entered the contest in the second half when the Broncos were already trailing the Bills 35-6, but the fourth-year signal caller made the most of his opportunity. The 26-year-old finds himself in a battle for the No. 2 quarterback spot with veteran Josh Johnson, the latter of which signed with Denver this offseason. Based on the Broncos' first preseason game against the Cowboys, it seemed Johnson was beginning to separate himself in the competition, but Rypien's impressive performance against Buffalo will likely turn the heat up on the battle for the backup spot. If he has another solid performance in Denver's third preseason game against Minnesota on Aug. 27, Rypien could make a push for the No. 2 role as the coaching staff makes their final roster decisions ahead of the 2022 campaign.
Apr 11, 2022
Signs tender
Rypien signed his one-year exclusive rights tender Monday, Aric DiLalla of the Broncos' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Rypien spent the majority of the 2021 season as the Broncos' No. 3 signal-caller behind Teddy Bridgewater and Drew Lock, appearing in just one game and logging three snaps in total. Even with Bridgewater (Miami) and Lock (Seattle) in new locations, Rypien's outlook won't change much in 2022. The Broncos acquired Russell Wilson from the Seahawks earlier in the offseason, while Josh Johnson looks like the favorite for the backup role after he was brought aboard in March on a one-year, $1.3 million deal.
Mar 13, 2022
Tendered by Broncos
The Broncos extended a contract tender to Rypien on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Rypien played just three offensive snaps during the 2021 campaign and failed to complete either of his two pass attempts. As an exclusive rights free agent, he'll return to Denver in 2022 to serve as a backup to Russell Wilson.
Nov 28, 2021
Won't suit up Sunday
Rypien (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Chargers.
ANALYSIS
With Drew Lock back off the reserve/COVID-19 list, Rypien slides back down the depth chart. He has not appeared in a game this season.
Nov 7, 2021
Ascends to No. 2 role Week 9
Rypien will serve as the backup quarterback behind starter Teddy Bridgewater in Sunday's game against the Cowboys, Nick Kosmider of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Aside from exiting early in Week 4 with a concussion, Bridgewater has been healthy and has started every game this season, resulting in Rypien being a fixture on the inactive list as the team's No. 3 quarterback. However, with top backup Drew Lock moving to the reserve/COVID-19 list Sunday, Rypien will get the chance to dress Week 9. The Broncos haven't revealed whether Lock tested positive for the virus or if he was ruled out for contact tracing, making it unclear if Rypien will remain the No. 2 signal-caller beyond this week.
Sep 28, 2021
Joins active roster
The Broncos signed Rypien to their 53-man roster Tuesday, Aric DiLalla of Denver's official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Rypien appeared in three games for the Broncos last season and won his only start. When Teddy Bridgewater was acquired in the offseason, it was almost a foregone conclusion that the 25-year-old wouldn't earn a spot on the initial 53-man roster. He signed with Denver's practice squad to start the season, but he has been called up to the active roster to avoid another team signing him.
Sep 2, 2021
Back to practice squad
The Broncos signed Rypien to the practice squad Wednesday, Howard Balzer of SI.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Rypien appeared in three games for Denver last season, but with Teddy Bridgewater starting the 2021 season and Drew Lock available behind him, there wasn't room for a third quarterback on the initial 53-man roster. He will continue his development on the practice squad.
Aug 30, 2021
Lands on waivers
Rypien was waived by the Broncos on Monday, Mike Klis of 9News Denver reports.
ANALYSIS
Teddy Bridgewater will start at quarterback for the Broncos while Drew Lock serves as the backup. Rypien played in three games last season with one start, completing 68 percent of his passes for 295 yards (7.4 YPA), two touchdowns and four interceptions. If he clears waivers, he'll land on the practice squad.
Jan 17, 2021
Gets one start in sophomore season
Rypien completed 27 of 40 passes for 295 yards, two touchdowns and four interceptions during the 2020 season. He lost five yards on five carries.
ANALYSIS
Rypien started the season as QB3, but impressed enough in relief in Week 3's loss to Tampa Bay to get the start for the injured Drew Lock in Week 4's win versus the Jets. Rypien kept New York in that game with a handful of poor decisions, but he also made some big plays downfield, most notably a 48-yard deep shot to Jerry Jeudy for a touchdown. At that point, Rypien became Denver's QB2. Whether he stays there depends on the offseason. The Broncos are almost certainly going to look for competition for Lock either in free agency or the draft. That could push Rypien down a slot heading into 2021.
Dec 1, 2020
Returns from COVID-19 list
Rypien was activated off the reserve/COVID-19 list Tuesday, Aric DiLalla of the Broncos' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Following an unprecedented situation that led to practice squad wide receiver Kendall Hinton playing quarterback in Sunday's loss to the Saints, things are back to normal in Denver. Rypien, Drew Lock and Blake Bortles have all been restored from the COVID-19 list. Lock will start under center in the Week 13 matchup against the Chiefs.
Nov 28, 2020
Goes to COVID-19 list
Rypien was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list Saturday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Starting quarterback Drew Lock was also placed on the list, joining Jeff Driskel. All three quarterbacks were considered high-risk close contacts to an infected person. According to Mike Klis of 9News Denver, Royce Freeman is an option to play quarterback Sunday against the Saints, and the Broncos will need to get creative nonetheless.
Nov 22, 2020
Remains backup Sunday
Rypien will be the backup quarterback Sunday against the Dolphins with Drew Lock (ribs) active and starting, Troy Renck of Denver 7 News reports.
ANALYSIS
The 24-year-old split reps with Lock at practice throughout the week, but he'll remain in the backup role with the regular starter cleared to play. Rypien hasn't seen the field since playing one offensive snap Week 7 against the Chiefs.
Nov 19, 2020
Staying ready for possible start
Rypien split reps in Thursday's practice with top quarterback Drew Lock (ribs), who was listed as a limited participant in the session, Zac Stevens of TheDNVR.com reports.
ANALYSIS
As Sunday's game against the Dolphins approaches, the Broncos are viewing Lock as day-to-day after he came out of the Week 10 loss to the Raiders with a muscle strain and bruising to his ribs. The fact that Lock returned to the field in some fashion Thursday is an encouraging sign that he'll be ready to come once the weekend arrives, but head coach Vic Fangio is keeping Rypien prepared in the event Lock's condition takes a turn for the worse. Rypien previously picked up a start Week 4 while Lock was out with a shoulder injury, completing 19 of 31 attempts for 242 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions in a 37-28 win over the Jets.
Oct 18, 2020
Set for backup duties
Rypien will serve as Drew Lock's backup Sunday against the Patriots, Mike Klis of 9News Denver reports.
ANALYSIS
Rypien proved enough in his Week 4 start against the Jets, when he completed 19 of 31 passes (61 percent) for 242 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions, to earn the No. 2 quarterback job upon Lock's return to the lineup. Jeff Driskel is inactive as a result. Rypien won't play much this year as long as Lock stays healthy, but his short tryout could keep him in the Broncos' plans moving forward.
Oct 2, 2020
Overcomes three-interception night
Rypien completed 19 of 31 passes for 242 yards with two touchdowns and three interceptions in the Broncos' 37-28 win over the Jets on Thursday. He also rushed for minus-5 yards on five carries.
ANALYSIS
Rypien had quite the rollercoaster of a first NFL start, providing a fair share of highlights and regrettable moments during the surprisingly high-scoring win. The Boise State product almost derailed the game with a pair of second-half interceptions over a span of four attempts, with one of the picks being returned for a touchdown by Pierre Desir to bring the Jets to within 27-25 with 10:45 remaining. However, to his credit, Rypien righted the ship by subsequently leading a pivotal nine-play, 40-yard drive highlighted by a 31-yard completion to Tim Patrick that put the ball in field-goal range. Rypien also connected with rookie Jerry Jeudy earlier in the game on a 48-yard score, and outside of the miscues, he performed serviceably for a first-time starter that traveled a pair of time zones to play on a short week. He'll now have extra time to prepare for what could be a Week 5 start on the road against the Patriots on Sunday, Oct. 11 unless Drew Lock (shoulder) is deemed ready to return for that contest.
Sep 29, 2020
Confirmed starter against Jets
Coach Vic Fangio named Rypien the starting quarterback for Thursday's game versus the Jets, Ryan O'Halloran of The Denver Post reports.
ANALYSIS
Drew Lock (shoulder) will remain sidelined for a second straight week, affording Rypien an opportunity to make his first NFL start. Rypien made his NFL debut in Week 3's loss to the Buccaneers after Jeff Driskel couldn't produce, and he looked serviceable, completing his first eight passing attempts for 53 yards before tossing an interception. Fangio did relay that Driskel could still be used in the offense, according to James Palmer of NFL Network, but Rypien will get the first chance against a Jets defense that ranks 15th with 239 passing yards allowed per game.
Sep 29, 2020
Frontrunner for Week 4 start
The Broncos have yet to name a starting quarterback for Thursday's game against the Jets, but Rypien is expected to receive the assignment, Mike Klis of 9News Denver reports.
ANALYSIS
With top signal-caller Drew Lock (shoulder) set to miss a second straight game Week 4 and with coach Vic Fangio deeming the newly signed Blake Bortles as not being ready to start, Rypien and Jeff Driskel are the candidates to direct the Denver offense against New York. Driskel flopped while starting in place of Lock in the Broncos' 28-10 loss to Tampa Bay in Week 3, completing 17 of 30 attempts for 176 yards, a touchdown and an interception before being benched in the fourth quarter in favor of Rypien. While Rypien didn't produce points on his lone drive, he proved to be more efficient, completing his first eight pass attempts for 53 yards before throwing a red-zone interception on fourth down. The respectable relief performance looks like it will be enough for Rypien to earn his first NFL start, but expect the Broncos to rely on a conservative, run-heavy offensive script Thursday, if the game flow allows for it.
Sep 28, 2020
Could start versus Jets on Thursday
Coach Vic Fangio relayed Monday that he hasn't decided whether Rypien or Jeff Driskel will start against the Jets on Thursday, Zac Stevens of TheDNVR.com reports.
ANALYSIS
With Drew Lock (shoulder) out, Driskel started this past Sunday's loss against the Buccaneers, but he was replaced by Rypien after recording just 5.9 yards per attempt, a touchdown and an interception. Rypien was more accurate and just as efficient, completing eight of nine passes for 53 yards (5.9 YPA) and an interception in his first NFL action. The two may compete during the practice week, and Fangio was clear that Blake Bortles isn't in the starting conversation at this time.
Sep 27, 2020
Steps in against Bucs
Rypien went 8-for-9 passing with 53 yards and an interception during Sunday's 28-10 loss to Tampa Bay.
ANALYSIS
The recent practice squad call-up stepped in for the ineffective Jeff Driskel Sunday after Driskel absorbed five sacks while throwing one touchdown and one INT in three-plus quarters of duty. Rypien was capable of leading the Broncos on an 11-play, 60-yard sequence during his lone offensive drive, completing eight consecutive passes before being intercepted by Mike Edwards near the goal line. It's unclear if recent signing Blake Bortles will be ready to suit up against the Jets on Thursday, but coach Vic Fangio was unwilling to designate a starting quarterback for Week 4 during Sunday's postgame press conference.
Sep 25, 2020
Bumps up from practice squad
The Broncos promoted Rypien from the practice squad to the active roster Friday, Aric DiLalla of the team's official site reports.
ANALYSIS
In the wake of Drew Lock's shoulder injury, Jeff Driskel is slated to start at least the next two games for the Broncos. The next question surrounds who will serve as Driskel's backup. The team brought in Blake Bortles this week, but coach Vic Fangio doesn't expect the veteran signal-caller to be ready for more than emergency work in his first outing as a Bronco. As a result, Rypien has been plucked from the practice squad to handle No. 2 QB duties for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers, at the very least.
Sep 24, 2020
Set for No. 2 QB duties with Denver
Head coach Vic Fangio said Wednesday that the Broncos intend to call Rypien up from the practice squad to serve as the team's backup quarterback Sunday against the Buccaneers, Nick Kosmider of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Though the Broncos will delay placing Drew Lock (shoulder) on injured reserve, the team's starting signal-caller is still expected to miss at least two games. Denver signed Blake Bortles earlier this week to add some experienced depth at the position while Lock is sidelined, but Fangio suggested Bortles likely won't be ready to serve as anything more than an emergency option at quarterback Sunday, if he's even active for the contest. Since Rypien has familiarity with the Broncos' system after spending the past year and a half with the organization as a member of the offseason roster, 53-man roster or practice squad, Fangio views him as an ideal backup in the short term for Jeff Driskel, who will start in place of Lock in Week 3. Rypien could return to the practice squad as soon as Week 4, when Bortles will presumably be up to speed with the new playbook.
Sep 6, 2020
Fails to make final cut
Rypien was waived by the Broncos on Saturday, Aric DiLalla of the team's official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Rypien dressed as the backup for the Broncos for three games in 2019, but did not appear in any of them. Rypien failed to make an impression with the coaching staff for even a third-string role, as the Broncos will roll with Drew Lock and Jeff Driskel on the depth chart to start the 2020 campaign.