The New England Patriots have reached an agreement with quarterback Tommy DeVito on a two-year deal valued up to $7.4 million, including $2 million guaranteed, the athlete’s agent confirmed to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. This contract extension comes as DeVito enters the 2026 season continuing his role within the Patriots’ quarterback lineup.
DeVito, who served as the third-string quarterback throughout the 2025 campaign, remains behind starter Drake Maye and veteran backup Joshua Dobbs on the depth chart.
Current Quarterback Situation and Roster Stability
Entering 2026, the Patriots’ quarterback roster remains largely unchanged, with Dobbs under contract for one more season following his 2025 signing. The 31-year-old backup is set to earn a base salary of $3.2 million this year and is projected to carry a $4.75 million cap hit. Meanwhile, DeVito, 27, arrived in New England in late August after being claimed off waivers from the New York Giants.
With DeVito classified as a restricted free agent this offseason, New England had the option to place tenders at various levels: the right of first refusal ($3.52 million), a second-round tender ($5.7 million), or a first-round tender ($8 million). Instead of pursuing those, the team and DeVito agreed on a two-year contract, which includes a base value around $4.4 million, allowing him to forgo unrestricted free agency in 2027.
DeVito’s Development and Role on the Team
Though DeVito did not appear in any games last season, he expressed appreciation for learning the offensive system led by coordinator Josh McDaniels. Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel acknowledged DeVito’s progress after just joining the team late in training camp, saying,
“I think that’s a tough proposition to have, coming in at the end of training camp and trying to get acclimated offensively. So to his credit, he’s done a really nice job.”
Vrabel also highlighted how DeVito dedicated additional time each Monday to work with younger receivers, especially those on the practice squad, demonstrating his value beyond the quarterback room.
Future Outlook for the Patriots’ Offense
With the Patriots retaining their quarterback structure and adding certainty around DeVito’s future, the team appears committed to continuity as they prepare for the coming season. This deal suggests the Patriots are focusing on steady development within their roster rather than pursuing major free agency moves. The long-term impact will reveal how DeVito fits into New England’s plans amidst competition from Maye and Dobbs, as well as potential shifts in the receiving corps.
