The 49ers claimed quarterback McLeod Bethel-Thompson off waivers and released journeyman backup quarterback John Skelton.

Bethel-Thompson, who was with the 49ers in training camp before the 2011 season, joined the defending NFC champions one day after getting released by the Minnesota Vikings. Bethel-Thompson, a native of San Francisco who attended Balboa High School, has not played in an NFL regular-season game.

Skelton was let go only seven days after signing with the 49ers. He was inactive for last Sunday’s win over the Houston Texans.

Colin Kaepernick is San Francisco’s starter while Colt McCoy is the backup.