Minnesota Vikings Promote Daniel Jones, Shift Brett Rypien to Practice Squad
The Minnesota Vikings made a pivotal roster move ahead of their NFC Wild Card matchup against the Los Angeles Rams, promoting Daniel Jones to the 53-man roster. The decision, which brings postseason experience to the quarterback room, cost veteran backup Brett Rypien his spot on the active roster. Jones now joins starter Sam Darnold and QB2 Nick Mullens as the Vikings gear up for the critical playoff clash.
Despite the shuffle, Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell had high praise for Rypien’s contributions.
“The rules are a little different this time of year versus even last week, had that move happened then. So you’re still crossing your fingers, knowing you’re exposing a good player with … not only knowledge of our system but somebody we’re just excited about,” O’Connell said on January 9. “We brought him here for a reason, and he’s exceeded all the expectations despite people not seeing him on the field during the regular season.”
O’Connell emphasized Rypien’s behind-the-scenes work with quarterbacks coach Grant Udinski and assistant coach Josh McCown, adding:
“There’s been so much work, time, and energy spent from Brett to continue his progression. That individual approach to that room, for all those guys, is a huge part of why we do what we do in this building. He’s shown he’s a guy we could rely on in the future with the type of work he’s put in.”
Rypien’s Career and Role Moving Forward
The 28-year-old Rypien, an undrafted free agent from Boise State in 2019, has had stints with the Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Rams, Chicago Bears, New York Jets, and Seattle Seahawks. Over his career, he’s completed 58.3% of his passes for 950 yards, four touchdowns, and nine interceptions.
While currently signed to a one-year, $1.1 million contract, Rypien’s relatively low price and O’Connell’s supportive comments may bolster his chances of returning to the Vikings in 2025. The team will likely retain two of its key quarterbacks—Darnold, Jones, or rookie first-round pick J.J. McCarthy, who missed the 2024 regular season due to a torn meniscus—but will need a third option for depth.
Vikings’ Quarterback Strategy
The Vikings have shuffled their quarterback depth significantly since Kirk Cousins’ Achilles injury in Week 8 of the 2023 season. Rypien served as an insurance policy, stepping in when needed, but his competition within the roster is fierce. With Daniel Jones potentially overtaking him as QB2 and J.J. McCarthy expected to return healthy, Rypien’s role in 2025 remains uncertain.
Jaren Hall’s Departure
The Vikings’ decision to cut fifth-round draft pick Jaren Hall earlier this season to make room for Rypien adds another layer to this narrative. Hall, who impressed during preseason, was later signed by the Seattle Seahawks. The Vikings’ playoff success may determine how this series of quarterback moves is ultimately judged.
For now, the Vikings will lean on their current trio—Darnold, Mullens, and Jones—while Rypien remains ready to step in from the practice squad if called upon. All eyes will be on their quarterback room as the team pushes deeper into the postseason.
