Tom Brady’s longtime deputy will have to find a new gig.
The New England Patriots reportedly released backup quarterback Brian Hoyer as part of their final cuts on Saturday, ensuring that rookie Jarrett Stidham will take up the role instead.
#Patriots are releasing QB Brian Hoyer.
— Adam Caplan (@caplannfl) August 31, 2019
Stidham, a fourth-round draft pick, showed immense promise in the preseason and was always going to make the roster. The question was whether he would supplant Hoyer as Brady’s backup and whether the Patriots would keep two quarterbacks or three if he did.
The 33-year-old Hoyer was drafted by New England in 2009 and spent his first three NFL seasons with the team. He returned in 2017 despite demand elsewhere, and by all accounts, was a quality backup to Brady. He’ll probably find a soft landing with some team in search of veteran depth at the position.
