Patriots' DeVito Happy to Leave Giants Spotlight in Past

Backup QB Tommy DeVito embraces new role after breakout with Giants

Feb. 3, 2026 at 12:31am

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Quarterback Tommy DeVito, who rose to fame as an undrafted rookie starter for the New York Giants in 2023-24, is now happily playing a backup role with the New England Patriots as they prepare for Super Bowl LX. DeVito, known for his 'Tommy Cutlets' persona and local fame in the New York/New Jersey area, is embracing the change of pace and being out of the spotlight, focusing on helping the Patriots' defense prepare for the game.

Why it matters

DeVito's transition from Giants starter to Patriots backup highlights the fleeting nature of fame in the NFL, as well as the importance of adaptability and teamwork. His story also provides an interesting contrast between the high-profile quarterback and the selfless backup role.

The details

After leading the Giants to three straight wins as an undrafted rookie in 2023 and starting in 2024, DeVito was claimed off waivers by the Patriots in August 2025. Now, he serves as the third-string quarterback behind Drake Maye and Josh Dobbs, focusing on giving the Patriots' defense the best possible look in practice. DeVito is no longer the center of attention like he was with the Giants, when his 'Tommy Cutlets' persona and local fame made him one of the few bright spots on a struggling team.

  • DeVito led the Giants to three straight wins as an undrafted rookie in 2023.
  • DeVito started for the Giants in 2024 after Daniel Jones was released.
  • DeVito was claimed off waivers by the Patriots in August 2025.

The players

Tommy DeVito

A quarterback who rose to fame as an undrafted rookie starter for the New York Giants in 2023-24, but is now happily playing a backup role with the New England Patriots as they prepare for Super Bowl LX.

Drake Maye

The starting quarterback for the New England Patriots.

Josh Dobbs

The second-string quarterback for the New England Patriots.

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What they’re saying

“That was cool and fun, but that's a Jersey, New York thing, if you will. That's going to be tied to that. Mainly, because I'm from there. That was one of the most special teams in my life — and I love it every time I go back — but this is a different version of myself, and I'm happy with that.”

— Tommy DeVito (nypost.com)

“I'm looked at as Tommy DeVito the football player and not 'Tommy Cutlets,' the at-home Italian kid down the street. I think it was good for me. It was good for everything outside of me — family. It couldn't happen at a better place.”

— Tommy DeVito (nypost.com)

“As a competitor, you always want to play. But my role each week, I am giving our defensive guys a look akin to no other. Trying to replicate, I'm watching film on the [opposing] quarterbacks to give them the best possible advantage.”

— Tommy DeVito (nypost.com)

What’s next

The Patriots will face the Seahawks in Super Bowl LX on February 9, 2026.

The takeaway

DeVito's transition from Giants starter to Patriots backup shows the fleeting nature of fame in the NFL and the importance of adaptability. His selfless focus on helping the team succeed, rather than personal glory, is an inspiring example of putting the team first.