The Patriots are bringing back one of Mac Jones’ key figures of support. New England re-signed Brian Hoyer to a two-year deal Monday, reports ESPN’s Mike Reiss.
Hoyer, 36, emerged as one of Jones’ mentors last season. The veteran pass-thrower is entering his 14th NFL season and has enjoyed three stints with the Patriots: 2009 to 2011, 2017-18 and 2020-21. He’s appeared in 29 games for the Patriots and has thrown for 692 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Overall, Hoyer has thrown for 10,631 yards and 53 touchdowns in 75 career games. His vast experience with the Patriots offense means he’s a valuable piece, especially considering the team’s lack of an offensive coordinator.
Hoyer might be more familiar with New England’s system than anybody on staff besides Bill Belichick.
“Brian’s been a really close friend of mine since I’ve gotten here, and I know he’s older than me, and [I] might be closer in age to his son, Garrett, but he’s still a really good mentor, and he just does a great job every week,” Jones said in October about Hoyer’s impact, per the Globe.
As the depth chart stands now, Hoyer enters next season as Jones’ backup. The Patriots also signed guard/center James Ferentz, reports the Globe’s Jim McBride.
The NFL free agency tampering period begins Monday at noon. Free agency officially starts Wednesday at 4:00 p.m.
