For the first time in 20 years, the New England Patriots will have to name their new starting quarterback after Tom Brady decided to sign with Tampa Bay.

The Pats have had previous success in Tom Brady’s absence. In 2008, New England went 11-5 with Matt Cassel as their starting qb, although the Miami Dolphins won the AFC East.

In 2015, Brady was suspended for 4 games because of the “Deflategate” scandal. New England went 3-1 during that span with Jimmy Garoppolo (2-0) Jacoby Brissett (1-1)

Now, the Pats will move into 2020 with Jarrett Stidham, Cody Kessler, and recently signed Brian Hoyer who had previous stints of being Brady’s primary backup.

Captain Devin McCourty said on a recent podcast that he “loves the poise” Stidham and that the second year qb didn’t have it easy against against New England’s first team defense.

Stidham could definitely use the experience as the former fourth round pick has looked sharp in the preseason, but has yet to start a NFL game.

Hoyer has had 2 previous backup stints for New England but he was likely added to the roster for depth purposes. The Pats could also address the qb situation in the upcoming 2020 draft.

It is unclear on who will be named the starter week 1, but it is certain that the AFC East is more open than its ever been with the exit of number 12.