Patriots to sign QB Brian Hoyer, joins NE for third stint

In the wake of the seismic changes in their quarterback room, the New England Patriots have turned to a familiar face.

34-year-old Brian Hoyer.

Hoyer, who last played for the Pats in 2018, is nearing a return to the organization, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport on Sunday. The terms have not yet been disclosed but Rapoport added that it would be a one-year deal.

Jim McBride of the Boston Globe first reported the news.

Hoyer was released by New England last August after losing his backup job to 2019 fourth-round pick Jarrett Stidham. Hoyer now re-joins a QB depth chart that include Stidham and Cody Kessler, who held down the third-string spot behind Stidham and Tom Brady.

Brady’s departure has left the position — and the organization — in a state of flux as they search for a new identity for the first time in 20 years.

Hoyer’s arrival by no means tips Bill Belichick’s hand but it is an interesting move to bring back a guy who is already familiar with the system. Still, the team could look to the draft or a number of available, former QB1s looking for new homes (Andy Dalton? Cam Newton? Jameis Winston?) to fill the starting role.

He appeared in 13 games, in relief of Brady, during his first stint (2009-11) and completed 27 of his 43 attempts for 286 yards, a touchdown and an interception. His last run, which lasted 10 combined games from 2017-18, saw him account for just 49 yards (5-of-7).

He played in four games for the Colts last season; in relief of Jacoby Brissett in Week 8, Hoyer tallied 168 yards, three scores and an INT. He started in Week 9 to the Dolphins and went 18-of-39 for 204 yards, a TD and three picks in a loss. He was released by the team on Saturday.

New England also intend to sign former Jets linebacker Brandon Copeland.