The Patriots have signed former 49ers quarterback Brian Hoyer to be Tom Brady's backup.

The deal was announced a day after Hoyer was released by San Francisco. The 49ers acquired Jimmy Garoppolo in a trade with New England.

Hoyer began his career as Brady's backup in New England in 2009, and has spent time with seven NFL teams during his nine-year career.

He started the first six games this season for the 49ers before being benched for C.J. Beathard.

Hoyer, 32, has played in 55 games with 37 starts and has completed 833 of 1,404 passes for 9,853 yards with 48 touchdowns and 30 interceptions.

He is also being reunited with offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, who coached Hoyer briefly after McDaniels returned to New England 2012.