Sloter joins Vikings practice squad despite Broncos push to keep QB

Sep 4, 2017, 12:00 AM Updated: 9:26 am

DENVER, CO - AUGUST 31: Quarterback Kyle Sloter #1 of the Denver Broncos passes against the Arizona Cardinals int he first half during a preseason NFL game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on August 31, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)

(Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)

The NFL dream has become a reality for rookie undrafted quarterback Kyle Sloter, just not with the Denver Broncos.

Despite the wishes of many in Broncos Country, and the organization’s desire to keep him in Denver, the University of Northern Colorado alum instead finds a home with the Minnesota Vikings practice squad.

Fan Football Insider Cecil Lammey first reported the Vikings made a “huge push” for the gunslinger, where he’ll make $340,000 next season — slightly less than a number of backup quarterbacks on active NFL roster.

In a message to Twitter, Sloter thanked Broncos fans for the support and explained what went into the decision to sign on with the Vikings.

“The opportunity, coupled with the best decision for me and my family financially, was too much to pass up,” Sloter wrote. “Thank you, again, to Broncos Country. Looking forward to being a part of a great organization.”

pic.twitter.com/g6BbM7sqh9

— Kyle Sloter (@KyleSloter) September 3, 2017

On Saturday, Broncos general manager John Elway praised Sloter’s effort during training camp and in four preseason games — including one start — but said, ultimately, the jump to regular season action was a difficult one for a rookie.

“Kyle Sloter did a hell of a job in the preseason and had a hell of a camp. As I told him today when I talked to him, I said, ‘You don’t know this, but I’m telling you from experience, going from the preseason to the regular season is a big jump,’” Elway said. “We didn’t want to put him in that situation.”

Instead, Elway opted to not only keep Paxton Lynch on the active roster until he’s fully recovered from a sprained shoulder but also sign former second-round pick Brock Osweiler back to the squad.

Clearing his physical Monday morning, Osweiler will back up starter Trevor Siemian until at least Lynch’s return from injury.

In four preseason games, Sloter led the Broncos in passing touchdowns (3), interceptions (0), completion percentage (72.1) and quarterback rating (125.4).

Follow digital content producer Johnny Hart on Twitter: @JohnnyHart7.