Tommy DeVito Strengthens Patriots Roster Case in Preseason Opener image
Feb 8, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tommy DeVito (16) against the Seattle Seahawks during Super Bowl LX at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Tommy DeVito received an important opportunity in the New England Patriots’ preseason opener, and he did enough to strengthen his position on the roster.
With Drake Maye sitting out Thursday night against the Indianapolis Colts, DeVito started and handled the entire first half. The veteran completed 13 of 22 passes for 138 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions in New England’s 13-13 tie.
DeVito discussed his performance during the Patriots’ postgame press conferences, reflecting on an outing that included both encouraging moments and missed opportunities.
His strongest moment came during the second quarter.
DeVito connects with Kyle Williams again
DeVito found second-year receiver Kyle Williams for a 25-yard touchdown, giving New England a 10-7 lead. The connection was not entirely new. DeVito and Williams also produced one of the most impressive plays from the Patriots’ joint practices with Indianapolis. DeVito hit Williams for a deep touchdown after the receiver created separation down the field.
Recreating that success in a game offered an encouraging sign for both players. DeVito distributed the football to several receivers Thursday. Kobe Prentice caught three passes for 40 yards, while Lan Larison recorded six receptions for 38 yards. Mack Hollins added two catches for 24 yards.
The quarterback finished with a 92.6 passer rating and took only one sack. More importantly, he avoided an interception while the Colts’ quarterbacks combined to throw two.
DeVito was not flawless. New England scored only 10 points in the first half despite receiving multiple opportunities from its defense, and the offense struggled to establish any rhythm on the ground.
Still, DeVito demonstrated the steadiness teams seek from a backup quarterback.
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Patriots face decision behind Drake Maye
Maye remains firmly established as New England’s franchise quarterback after leading the Patriots to Super Bowl LX during his second NFL season.
The uncertainty comes behind him.
DeVito entered the preseason competing with rookie Behren Morton for the backup role. Morton completed 7 of 13 passes for 66 yards in the second half against Indianapolis, finishing with a 68.1 passer rating. Neither quarterback committed a turnover, but Morton could not lead a scoring drive. The Patriots went scoreless during the fourth quarter as the Colts erased a six-point deficit.
DeVito owns considerably more NFL experience. He appeared in 12 games and made eight starts for the New York Giants before New England claimed him off waivers in August 2025.
That experience was visible against Indianapolis. DeVito generally remained composed, handled pressure and gave his receivers opportunities to make plays.
The Patriots do not need their backup to duplicate Maye’s production. They need someone capable of managing the offense, protecting the football and keeping the team competitive if Maye misses time. DeVito accomplished those objectives in the preseason opener. It was not a spectacular performance, but it was a meaningful first step toward securing the No. 2 job.
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