2019 Patriots roster cuts: QB Brian Hoyer released, Jarrett Stidham wins backup job

According to Adam Caplan, the New England Pariots have released veteran quarterback Brian Hoyer.

After failing to see the field in the final two preseason games, it seemed the Patriots could have been giving rookie fourth-rounder Jarrett Stidham as many reps as possible before carrying three signal callers into the regular season. However, that no longer appears to be the case, as the former Auburn Tiger has won the backup quarterback job.

As a veteran, Hoyer will not have to pass through waivers. That, coupled with the fact that his unique contract structure guarantees him $1.51 million of his $2.8 million 2019 salary, means a return in the next couple of days — while players like David Andrews are placed on in-season IR and spots open up on the 53-man roster — can’t be entirely ruled out. But it is, of course, unlikely. Especially when considering how solid Stidham performed over the course of this summer and preseason.

If Hoyer signs elsewhere this season, the Patriots will earn a credit on their 2020 salary cap for every dollar he earns, up to $1.51 million.