The New England Patriots are reportedly bringing back a familiar face to an already crowded quarterback room for the 2021 NFL season.
Per an announcement from his agency, JL Sports, New England is re-signing veteran quarterback Brian Hoyer. Jim McBride of the Boston Globe was the first to report that the 35-year-old veteran signal-caller was coming back to Foxboro on a one-year deal.
Hoyer returned to New England in the 2020 offseason for his third go-round with the Patriots. He began the season as the team’s second option on the quarterback depth-chart, behind starter Cam Newton. However, after struggling in a Week 4 start against the Kansas City Chiefs, (a game which Newton was forced to miss as he recovered from COVID-19) Hoyer was designated to third-string behind Jarrett Stidham. He was a healthy scratch for the Patriots’ final 12 games, finishing 2020 by completing 15 of 24 pass attempts for 130 yards, zero touchdowns and one interception.
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While it is assumed that the Patriots will not carry four quarterbacks in 2021, Hoyer’s signing with the team should not be dismissed as mere roster-filling. During his time in New England, Hoyer has been outstanding when running the scout team. His experience and knowledge within the Patriots offensive system could prove to be invaluable during training camp. Should the Patriots chose to enter the 2021 season without rostering Hoyer, it is possible that he may remain with the team in a coaching or advisory role.
At present, however, Hoyer joins Cam Newton, Jarrett Stidham and first-round draft pick Mac Jones on the Patriots’ quarterback depth chart. He could serve as an on-field mentor for New England’s rookie quarterback, whom they selected with the 15th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft last month. Patriots head coach Bill Belichick stressed that Newton will remain the starter, at least in the short term. Hoyer also could compete with Stidham for a roster spot.
-Mike D’Abate is a Managing Editor and Columnist for Full Press Coverage. He covers the New England Patriots and provides NFL editorial content. He is also the host of the Locked On Patriots podcast. Follow him on Twitter @mdabateFPC