The New England Patriots signed quarterback Brian Hoyer to a 3-year deal, according to multiple reports. Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer had it first.
The Patriots needed a new back-up quarterback after trading Jimmy Garoppolo to the San Francisco 49ers, leaving Tom Brady as the only quarterback on the New England roster. The 49ers subsequently released Hoyer, who served as the back-up to Brady in New England from 2009-11, making a return seemingly inevitable.
Hoyer spent time with the Steelers, Cardinals, Browns, Texans, Bears, and 49ers between 2012 and 2017 before making his return to New England. According to the NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Green Bay Packers tried to sign Hoyer away, but the Patriots were able to reach terms.
The 3-year deal provides the Patriots consistency at the back-up position for a few more years, although the 32-year-old quarterback shouldn’t be considered the future of the position. The multi-year deal gives the Patriots flexibility when it comes to drafting and grooming a quarterback because Hoyer can remain the top back-up for a couple more years until the new prospect is ready to take his place.
We will have more on this story when it is available.