Is there a QB controversy brewing in Foxborough? The Patriots just added former Giants quarterback Tommy DeVito, making their roster a bit crowded. What does this mean for Josh Dobbs, who was expected to be Drake Maye’s primary backup? Coach Vrabel weighed in, but his answer has left fans with more questions than answers. Is DeVito just insurance, or is Dobbs’ position truly on the line?
The New England Patriots’ recent acquisition of quarterback Tommy DeVito has sparked considerable discussion regarding the team’s depth chart and the immediate future of incumbent backup Josh Dobbs.
DeVito, a former New York Giants quarterback, was claimed off waivers this week, marking his arrival as the third signal-caller on the Patriots’ roster. This unexpected move adds another layer of intrigue to an already evolving quarterback situation in Foxborough, especially with rookie Drake Maye slated as the starter.
Prior to DeVito’s arrival, the Patriots had signed former Tennessee Vols quarterback Josh Dobbs earlier this offseason. Dobbs was widely expected to serve as the primary backup to Maye, a role that appeared solidified given his experience and a previous connection with head coach Mike Vrabel.
Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel addressed the media on Wednesday, fielding questions about the implications of DeVito’s addition for Dobbs. Vrabel’s response, while somewhat vague, emphasized the team’s continuous effort to strengthen the overall roster construction rather than signaling a specific indictment of any individual player’s performance.
It is important to recall that Vrabel has a history with Josh Dobbs, stemming from Dobbs’ brief stint with the Tennessee Titans in 2022 when Vrabel was the head coach. This familiarity might suggest a level of trust and understanding between the coach and the quarterback, potentially influencing the team’s approach to roster adjustments.
Analyzing Vrabel’s comments and the context of the move, it appears that Tommy DeVito is likely being brought in as additional insurance or to foster healthy competition within the quarterback room, rather than to directly unseat Dobbs from his established backup position. NFL teams constantly seek to maximize their depth, particularly at such a critical position.
Ultimately, the Patriots’ strategy underscores a commitment to robust roster building, ensuring they have multiple capable options at quarterback. While DeVito’s arrival generates headlines, the initial assessment suggests a move designed to enhance overall team resilience rather than a definitive change in the established pecking order for backup duties.