Browns Third-String QB to Start Sunday

BEREA, Ohio (AP) — Browns third-string quarterback Brian Hoyer will start Sunday against Minnesota in place of Brandon Weeden, who sprained his right thumb last week.

Cleveland has decided to go with Hoyer over more experienced backup Jason Campbell. The veteran came in for one series in the fourth quarter against Baltimore after Weeden injured his thumb when he banged it on a teammate's helmet while making a pass. Campbell has 71 career starts.

It's a dream assignment for Hoyer, who grew up in Cleveland rooting for the Browns. He signed with his hometown team in May after spending last season with Arizona.

Hoyer made one start with the Cardinals. He spent the three previous seasons in New England as Tom Brady's backup.

Hoyer was third on the Browns' depth chart all summer and inactive in Cleveland's first two games.