Report: Patriots sign QB Cody Kessler

The New England Patriots have signed quarterback Cody Kessler, according to ESPN Insider Adam Schefter.

A new QB in New England: Patriots are signing former Jaguars-Eagles-Browns QB Cody Kessler, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 25, 2019

The team wanted to fill the whole on the roster left by James Develin, so they decided to add some depth behind Tom Brady. As Mike Reiss noted shortly after the news broke, New England likes having a 3rd QB on the roster for practice purposes.

Once the Patriots released QB Brian Hoyer, and went with 2 QBs, there was always a chance of bringing in a third QB for depth. The balance was that the club didn't want to take away practice reps from Jarrett Stidham. But if Tom Brady takes some days off, it helps to have 3rd QB.
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) September 25, 2019

Kessler has appeared in 17 career games and started in 12 of them. He threw eight touchdowns and five interceptions during his tenure with the Cleveland Browns, Jacksonville Jaguars and Philadelphia Eagles. Kessler has been in the NFL for three years.