Tommy DeVito has secured a two-year contract extension with the New England Patriots worth $7.4 million, including $2 million guaranteed, according to ESPN. The Patriots made this move in early 2026 to retain DeVito as a backup quarterback, reinforcing their depth at the position following the 2025 season.
Backup Role and Patriots’ 2025 Season Recap
DeVito spent the 2025 season as a backup quarterback behind Drake Maye and Joshua Dobbs. Despite not appearing in any games during New England’s run to Super Bowl 60, DeVito established himself as a reliable presence on the roster. The New Jersey native, often affectionately nicknamed “Tommy Cutlets,” has adapted well to his role off the field and in the team’s quarterback room.
From Giants Starter to Patriots Reserve
Before joining the Patriots, DeVito played for the New York Giants, where he appeared in 12 games and started eight across the 2023 and 2024 seasons. Interestingly, his starts in 2023, including a win over New England, shaped the draft positions that led the Patriots to select quarterback Drake Maye with the third overall pick, while the Giants picked Malik Nabers at sixth.
In 2024, DeVito saw limited action, starting only two games and appearing in three before being waived by the Giants. The Giants’ quarterback room was crowded, with first-round pick Jaxson Dart alongside veterans Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston securing roster spots ahead of him.
Transitioning to New England and Personal Reflections
After being claimed off waivers by the Patriots, DeVito reflected on his time with the Giants as something more than just football.
“My journey with the New York Giants was more than football — it was about family, community, and a dream come true for a Jersey kid,”
he wrote on Instagram.
“I’ll forever be grateful to the organization and fans who welcomed me with open arms. New York will always be home.”
He expressed enthusiasm about joining the Patriots, adding,
“Excited for this next chapter in New England!”
During Super Bowl media week, DeVito noted how perceptions have shifted in Foxborough.
“I’m looked at as Tommy DeVito the football player and not ‘Tommy Cutlets,’ the at-home Italian kid down the street,”
he said.
“I think it was good for me. It was good for everything outside of me — family. It couldn’t happen at a better place.”
Super Bowl Appearance and Future Outlook
Although DeVito watched from the sidelines as the Seattle Seahawks defeated his Patriots teammates 29-13 in Super Bowl 60, he made a memorable impression with his grizzly bear-inspired outfit during the event. Looking ahead to 2026, with Joshua Dobbs still under contract and likely to serve as the primary backup, DeVito is expected to remain third-string for the Patriots.
Implications of DeVito’s Extension on Patriots’ Roster Strategy
DeVito’s extension signals the Patriots’ commitment to maintaining solid quarterback depth while developing young talent like Drake Maye. His financial security and steady presence offer stability for a team constantly balancing veteran experience and emerging prospects. As a native of New Jersey and a product of Syracuse and Illinois collegiate programs, DeVito’s journey reflects persistence and adaptability.
With his new contract, DeVito has cemented his place within the Patriots organization, reinforcing their plans heading into future seasons. For the Patriots, having seasoned backups like DeVito is crucial, particularly with the unpredictable nature of the quarterback position.
New England reached agreement today with QB Tommy DeVito on a two-year, $7.4 million deal that includes $2 million guaranteed, per his agent @seanstellato. pic.twitter.com/bTWP52gqSc
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 6, 2026
