Yes, For The Third Time, Patriots Bring Back Brian Hoyer

Stop me if you've heard this before: the New England Patriots have signed quarterback Brian Hoyer.

ESPN's Adam Schefter broke the news this morning that Hoyer signed a one-year contract to start a third stint in New England just this season. Hoyer, 35, re-signed in May, was released during final cuts on Aug. 31 and then signed back to the practice squad the following day.

Head coach Bill Belichick apparently can't get enough of the journeyman backup, whom he picked up as an undrafted free agent back in 2009. Hoyer saw that stint end in 2011, before being brought back in 2017, 2018 and 2020.

Hoyer will serve as backup to starting rookie quarterback Mac Jones, taking the place of Jarrett Stidham. Stidham suffered a back injury in July and is out till at least November.

The Patriots notably released former MVP Cam Newton before the season in a move that shocked the NFL world. Newton came out and said it was his "aura" that caused Belichick to cut him.

No concerns there for Hoyer as he brings no drama with him. Just a vast knowledge of the playbook and a veteran voice for Jones to lean on.