Tommy DeVito Makes Final Statement In Patriots’ Ugly Preseason Loss image
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The final score offered very little for the New England Patriots to celebrate, but Tommy DeVito made sure his last preseason appearance included one more memorable throw. DeVito connected with Kyle Williams for a 45-yard touchdown during the first quarter of New England’s 37-13 loss to the Cleveland Browns on Thursday night.
The veteran quarterback placed the ball over Williams’ outside shoulder, allowing the second-year receiver to beat his defender down the left sideline and finish the play without breaking stride. It was DeVito’s second long touchdown pass to Williams in as many games.
DeVito, Williams Finish Preseason With Another Big Play
Williams caught a 69-yard touchdown from DeVito during the Patriots’ 24-21 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles on Saturday. Five days later, the pair needed only one possession to strike again. DeVito completed 6 of 8 passes for 151 yards and one touchdown in limited action against Cleveland. He also led the Patriots with 44 rushing yards before rookie Behren Morton replaced him late in the first quarter.
The decision to remove DeVito early was another indication that his job was likely secure.
Drake Maye is the unquestioned starter, but DeVito entered the summer as New England’s most experienced backup option. The 28-year-old has made eight NFL starts and understands how quickly a reserve quarterback can be pushed into meaningful action. He used the preseason to show the Patriots could keep their offense functional if Maye were forced to miss time.
DeVito completed 15 of 22 passes for 206 yards in the preseason opener against the Indianapolis Colts. He then threw for 119 yards and the touchdown to Williams against Philadelphia.
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His final appearance was shorter, but arguably more convincing.
DeVito was accurate, decisive and responsible for New England’s only touchdown Thursday. The offense became significantly less effective after his departure, producing only two field goals with Morton behind center.
The Patriots would have preferred a competitive finish to the preseason. They instead left Cleveland with a 24-point loss and several difficult roster decisions.
DeVito should not be one of them.
The final score was forgettable. His preseason was not.
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