New England Patriots 53-man 2018 Roster Projection v1.0: Quarterbacks
By Hal Bent
Brian Hoyer
Brian Hoyer is the back-up and has the full trust of the offensive coaching staff running the offense. One of the underrated reasons for trading Garoppolo specifically to San Francisco was that the team knew that Hoyer would be let go by the 49ers. The answer to “why San Francisco?” for Garoppolo’s destination had everything to do with getting Hoyer back along with the second round draft pick.
Bill Belichick knew that Hoyer was going to be available to come to New England if he sent Garoppolo to the 49ers. He is not competition to Brady but Hoyer does provide a back-up to Brady that keeps the starter comfortable and that offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels is comfortable with. Hoyer is someone who could step in and run the offense in an emergency.
Hoyer also makes for a good sounding board for Brady. He knows Brady well enough to be an honest confidant. In addition, he is another ally in the locker room for Brady, which is important as well. A new contract last season when signing also made Hoyer a sensible back-up for 2018.
Danny Etling
Danny Etling was a seventh round draft pack selected number 219 overall. The Louisiana State two-year starter has the height (six-foot-three) but is a little thin (only 215 pounds). Etling is nothing more than a camp body to keep Brady’s arm fresh and possibly a practice squad quarterback to develop as a back-up after Hoyer is gone.
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Final Word:
This team is going to be in Super Bowl contention as long as Tom Brady continues to defy time. The team is loaded with skill position players with skills that highlight Brady’s strengths. Without Brady (or Garoppolo) Hoyer is not going to carry this team to the Super Bowl, but he can function in an emergency.