The New England Patriots are releasing quarterback Brian Hoyer, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports. The move means the team will carry in two quarterbacks into 2019 in Tom Brady and rookie Jarrett Stidham.

Originally, it was speculated that Hoyer would remain on the Patriots as the team's primary backup to Brady. But, that changed when Stidham — a fourth-round pick hailing from Auburn — took the field.

Over four preseason games, Stidham amassed 731 yards, four touchdowns, and an interception on 61-of-90 passing, good for a 67.8% completion rate and 102.6 passer rating. In those games, he passed the eye test, giving hope to him being the possible eventual successor to Brady (if he ever retires).

Hoyer, on the other hand, didn't play the last two preseason games; an indication that the Patriots wanted to give Stidham experience. Though Hoyer has played four and a half seasons as Brady's backup, the Patriots clearly favor developing a younger option, even if that means sacrificing experience on the bench.

Because he's a veteran, Hoyer won't have to go through waivers. As SB Nation's Brian Phillip points out, his contract has a unique structure with $1.51 million of his $2.8 million in 2019 salary guaranteed. If the quarterback decides to sign with another team, the Patriots will earn back up to $1.51 million in 2020 cap space.

Hoyer should receive interest from NFL teams in need of an experienced backup. One to note may the Indianapolis Colts. Behind Jacoby Brissett, the team boasts Chip Kelly and Phillip Walker — not a group particularly oozing experience in the NFL.