49ers' Jason Verrett ends his agonizing wait in biggest game of the year

It's bee a long wait for Jason Verrett, but the San Francisco 49ers cornerback will end it in primetime on Christmas Day.

Verrett, who was signed back to the practice squad this month, was elevated to the gameday roster for the Niners' blockbuster matchup with the Baltimore Ravens, which pits two 11-3 teams against each other in a battle of the top seeds in the NFL's respective conferences. 

The veteran corner has not played since the 49ers' season opener in 2021. He tore his ACL in that game and then tore his Achilles in the following campaign days after coming off the PUP list.

After a spell on the Houston Texans' practice squad earlier this season, Verrett got his wish and was released by Houston, freeing him up to return to the 49ers for a second stint.

He likely won't be asked to play defensive snaps against the Ravens given the Niners have a solidified top three at the corner position in Charvarius Ward, Deommodore Lenoir and Ambry Thomas, all of whom have excelled this season.

But the 49ers clearly still believe they can rely on Verrett, and his return in a game seen as the best of the regular season on paper is a significant achievement for a player who has been prevented from realizing his potential by a succession of devastating injuries.

Defensive lineman T.Y. McGill has been elevated from the practice squad for the second successive week with defensive tackle Arik Armstead still out because of knee and foot injuries.

Meanwhile, veteran wide receiver Willie Snead has joined the active roster, the former Raven promoted to the 53 with offensive lineman Matt Pryor waived in a corresponding move. Snead had reached his limit of three practice squad elevations but will likely be active against his old team with Jauan Jennings out because of a concussion.