Chicago Bears sign free agent quarterback Brian Hoyer

The Chicago Bears have signed veteran quarterback Brian Hoyer on a one-year contract.

Hoyer, 30, played last season with the Houston Texans where he spent time as their starter, and he is expected to be the primary backup to Bears No 1 Jay Cutler.

He is coming off his best season in the NFL, hitting 60.7 per cent of his pass attempts for the Texans and throwing 19 touchdown passes to only seven interceptions - he started nine of the 11 games he played in.

"I like the idea of having an experienced backup [quarterback]," said Bears general manager Ryan Pace.

"It's important for that position and it just gives us security going forward. I think it's key.

"When he's played, he's been productive.

"I like that [offensive coordinator] Dowell [Loggains] has been with him, has a lot of comfort with him. I've watched him play over the years. He's a very intelligent player.

"I know he's got a strong work ethic because we've got coaches that have been with him. I think he's a really good piece to add to the mix."

The Hoyer signing came hours after the conclusion of the NFL Draft, which was held in Chicago and saw the Bears spend most of their early picks on defensive players.

They moved up in the first round to select pass rusher Leonard Floyd with the ninth pick of the draft and also added tackle Jonathan Bullard, linebacker Nick Kwiatkoski and defensive backs Deon Bush and Deiondre' Hall in the opening four rounds.