Multiple sources indicate that New England Patriots quarterback Brian Hoyer sustained a concussion in Sunday’s overtime defeat to the Green Bay Packers and has since been put on injured reserve by the team. Hoyer will miss at least the next four games due to injury, thus the earliest he might return would be in Week 9 against the Indianapolis Colts, the Patriots last regular season game before their bye in Week 10.
The Patriots started Hoyer in Week 4 because Mac Jones couldn’t play because of a severe ankle injury. He led the offense on a field goal drive, completing five of six throws for 37 yards, before suffering a concussion in the first half. It forced the rookie quarterback Bailey Zappe into action, and he finished the game 10 of 15 passing for 99 yards and a score.
Given Hoyer’s situation, it’s possible that Zappe may get the nod to start for the Patriots against the Lions on Sunday at Gillette Stadium. On both Wednesday and Thursday, Jones took part in limited practice and is allegedly trying to play this weekend. Things would also make sense for the Patriots to take it slow with their previous first-round choice.
Brian Hoyer expected to return for Week 9
With a 1-3 record through the first four games, New England finds itself in last place in the AFC East for the first time since Week 13 of the 2014 season. Under Bill Belichick’s leadership, this has only occurred once before, back in 2000.
These recent losses to the Patriots’ quarterback room make it much more difficult for them to get back into the postseason race at a time when their schedule is relatively easy.
