Career overview and background
Thomas Frank Devito is an American football quarterback best known for his tenure with the New England Patriots in the National Football League (NFL). After a college career at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), he entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2022. Initially serving in backup and practice squad roles, Devito saw meaningful action during the 2023 season due to injuries in New England’s quarterback room. His time with the Patriots reflects a blend of resilience and adaptation, operating within a system that emphasized short, quick throws and improvisational plays.
2023 season performance and role
Game action and situational splits
During the 2023 campaign, Devito was part of a quarterbacks group that included veterans and high draft picks navigating injuries and performance fluctuations. On the season, he appeared in multiple games and completed a notable share of his passes on early downs. His role centered on moving the chains, extending plays with mobility, and providing a change of pace in specific packages. The following table outlines key performance metrics from his 2023 appearances.
| Metric | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Passing yards | Approximately 366 yards | Official NFL stats |
| Completion percentage | Around 67% | Official NFL stats |
| Touchdowns | 1 | Official NFL stats |
| Interceptions | 0 | Official NFL stats |
| Games played | Multiple, including starts | Team roster and box scores |
Playing style and strengths
Devito is a right-handed quarterback recognized for his accuracy on quick outs, slants, and tight window throws. He leverages a compact throwing motion and strong footwork to deliver the ball on rhythm routes, which complements a run-heavy offense. His ability to extend plays with his legs allows him to convert broken downs into first downs, and his decision-making under pressure is considered a strength. Coaches have noted his professionalism and willingness to learn complex protections and audibling concepts, traits that sustain a reserve quarterback across a long season.
Offseason development and training focus
Following the 2023 season, Devito entered an offseason focused on refining fundamentals and deepening his understanding of the Patriots’ offensive system. Work in the pocket, timing with receivers, and consistency on deeper concepts were priorities. Participation in team OTAs and minicamps provided repetitions with new receivers and coaching staff, helping him remain prepared for competition. His development illustrates how practice squad and backup quarterbacks maintain readiness through disciplined routines and detailed film study.
Historical context within the Patriots QB room
The Patriots have a long history of quarterbacks who have contributed in varied roles, and Devito fits into a lineage of backups and situational leaders. Compared to prior seasons, the 2023 quarterback room included a mix of experience and youth, and his steady performances offered flexibility in game planning. While not a franchise cornerstone, his presence allowed the team to manage injuries without sacrificing practice quality or in-game composure. This context helps explain why the Patriots continued to carry and develop him over multiple years.
Contract and roster status
Devito has been signed to reserve/future and standard practice squad contracts at different points, reflecting the standard path for backups in the NFL. These arrangements provide stability for both player and team, ensuring depth during training camp and preseason. Roster decisions each year hinge on performance, health, and the emergence of younger talent, and his status has followed these league patterns. As with many practice squad players, his tenure has involved periods of elevated opportunity followed by standard competition for limited spots.