NFL: Colts Pick Up Discarded Patriots Quarterback Brian Hoyer For Backup

Indianapolis needed a backup for new starting quarterback Jacoby Brissett and the Colts turned to former New England Patriots quarterback Brian Hoyer to fill up the void. The Pats recently parted ways with the 33-year-old player and the Colts wasted no time signing him before other NFL teams entered the fray.

The Colts are preparing for their Week 1 matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers and a backup quarterback was one of their primary needs. Hoyer became dispensable when the Pats took in Jarrett Stidham in the fourth round of the recent NFL Draft.

Also, Hoyer was not the only player the Colts signed up. According to Colts.com, they also added four more players to their practice squad. These were defensive end Jamal Davis, running back Quinton Flowers, defensive tackle Brian Price and wide receiver Chad Williams.

Hoyer is a veteran and once started for several NFL teams. That includes the Arizona Cardinals, Cleveland Browns, Houston Texans, Chicago Bears, and the San Francisco 49ers. He was Tom Brady's backup the past two seasons in New England and his exit left the 42-year-old quarterback a bit emotional. He gave his take on the WEEI's The Greg Hill Show on Tuesday.

“It’s very difficult to see your friends get released and that was really no different. It’s part of what happens in the NFL. I will never get used to it. I know that any team that Brian is on is a better team for having him. Indy has got a great quarterback in having Brian there.”

Following the sudden retirement of Andrew Luck, it appears the Colts have properly filled up the holes before the coming NFL season. All eyes will be on Brissett who will be in for an acid test. In the event things don't pan out, Hoyer should be an able backup to make sure Indianapolis does not fall apart.

"He has a tremendous amount of experience and is a proven leader. Brian’s knowledge will be a valuable resource in supporting Jacoby and the team on and off the field. We’re excited to have him here," said Colts head coach Frank Reich.