FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — Tom Brady didn’t go without a backup for long.

The Patriots signed former 49ers quarterback Brian Hoyer on Wednesday to fill the role, a day after Hoyer was released by San Francisco following its acquisition of 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 now returns to back up a quarterback in Brady that has been one of the most durable signal callers in the league during his career.

Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels said he anticipates Hoyer will take full advantage of New England’s bye week.