Patriots sign Hoyer to reported 3-year deal to replace Garoppolo

Free-agent quarterback Brian Hoyer signed with the New England Patriots on Wednesday, the team announced.

The 32-year-old inked a three-year deal, a source told Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.

Hoyer played for New England for three seasons after joining the franchise as an undrafted free agent in 2009. He'll slide in as Tom Brady's backup, replacing the recently traded Jimmy Garoppolo, who was sent to the San Francisco 49ers on Monday in exchange for a second-round pick.

Hoyer started six games for the 49ers, but struggled, throwing four touchdowns to four interceptions and completing just 58 percent of his passes.

However, the 32-year-old knows the Patriots' system and has proven capable of performing well in short stints.