Former Patriots QB Brian Hoyer shares family tragedy after ‘sudden’ death of sister-in-law

New England Patriots

“If you can find it in your heart to help us help him and his girls through this unimaginable season, we would be forever grateful.”

Former Patriots quarterback Brian Hoyer shared some tragic news on social media Wednesday, announcing that his sister-in-law had died “suddenly and unexpectedly” at just 36 years old. 

In an Instagram post, Hoyer asked for support for his younger brother, Brett, and his four young daughters. 

“It is with a heavy heart that I write this,” Hoyer posted on Instagram with a photo of his brother and his family. “On February 13th, my little brother lost his wife Carissa suddenly and unexpectedly. She leaves behind him and their four little girls, Josie, Lainey, Ellie, and Hattie. In an instant, he became a widowed father to four daughters under 12.

“If you can find it in your heart to help us help him and his girls through this unimaginable season, we would be forever grateful. We can’t take away their pain, but together we can help carry the weight.”

Hoyer shared a link to a GoFundMe — which set a goal of raising $100,000 for the family. As of Thursday evening, they had raised more than $109,000. 

“Our brother Brett and his four daughters are facing an unimaginable loss. On February 13, 2026, Carissa Rae Hoyer was suddenly called home to the Lord at the age of 36,” the fundraiser — which was set up by Brian and his brother, Matthew — noted.

A cause of death was not listed. 

“Our hope is simple. We want Brett to be able to focus on loving his girls, grieving together, and beginning the long process of healing without the constant weight of financial stress,” the description added. “We cannot take away their pain, but together we can help carry the weight.”

Hoyer — who currently co-hosts “The Quick Snap” podcast with former Patriots offensive lineman David Andrews — played in the NFL from 2009 to 2023 for eight different NFL teams. 

He had three separate stints in New England, starting as a backup QB for Tom Brady from 2009-11 before returning in a similar role in 2017-18. He won a Super Bowl with the Patriots in February 2019 after New England bested the Rams in Super Bowl LIII. 

 

Conor Ryan is a staff writer covering the Bruins, Celtics, Patriots, and Red Sox for Boston.com, a role he has held since 2023.