In a shocking turn of events that has sent ripples through the NFL, the New England Patriots have pulled off a bold maneuver, claiming quarterback Tommy DeVito off waivers and snatching him from the grasp of their division rivals, the New York Jets. The move, reported by NFL Insider Connor Hughes on August 27, 2025, has left the football world buzzing with surprise and speculation.
Jets’ Interest in DeVito Thwarted
The Jets had their sights set on DeVito, a 27-year-old quarterback who entered the league as an undrafted free agent in 2023. According to Hughes, the Jets were “very interested” in adding DeVito to their practice squad with the potential for elevation to the active roster. “All I had heard was I knew the Jets liked him, and I knew the Jets wanted him,” Hughes revealed on “Jets Final Drive,” a sentiment echoed by The Athletic’s Zack Rosenblatt, who confirmed the Jets’ keen interest in the young quarterback.
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DeVito’s appeal is undeniable. In his two seasons with the New York Giants, he appeared in 12 games, starting eight, and showcased his potential with a 65.3% completion rate, 1,358 passing yards, and an impressive 8 touchdown to 3 interception ratio. His strong arm and ability to perform under pressure made him an attractive target for the Jets, who were looking to bolster their quarterback depth amid concerns about their current roster.
Patriots Swoop In with Waiver Wire Priority
The Giants, who had four quarterbacks on their roster at the start of the offseason, made the inevitable decision to waive DeVito ahead of final roster cuts. This move opened the door for other teams to claim him, and the Patriots, with the No. 4 overall waiver wire priority, wasted no time. “I was stunned when it came through that he was claimed,” Hughes admitted, highlighting the unexpected nature of New England’s swift action.
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The Patriots’ claim means DeVito is now in line to serve as their QB2, a significant role for a player who was initially seen as a practice squad candidate for the Jets. This strategic acquisition not only strengthens New England’s quarterback room but also delivers a gut punch to their AFC East rivals.
Jets’ Quarterback Depth Under Scrutiny
The Jets’ failure to secure DeVito has amplified concerns about their quarterback depth. With only three quarterbacks on their roster—starter Justin Fields, backup Tyrod Taylor, and developmental undrafted free agent Brady Cook—the Jets are in a precarious position. Fields, who has yet to complete a fully healthy NFL season, is a dynamic but injury-prone starter. Meanwhile, Taylor’s health is a growing concern, as he underwent arthroscopic knee surgery this offseason and has not practiced with the team since July, according to ESPN’s Rich Cimini.
“Tyrod Taylor is still dealing with [the] knee issue,” Hughes reported on social media, adding fuel to the uncertainty surrounding the Jets’ backup situation. While head coach Aaron Glenn expressed confidence that Taylor will be ready for the season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers, beat reporter Zack Rosenblatt voiced skepticism, stating, “I’m concerned about TyTyrod, to be honest.” The Jets’ interest in DeVito underscores their unease about their current quarterback options, making the Patriots’ move all the more stinging.
NFL World Reacts to the Stunning Move
The Patriots’ daring raid has sparked widespread reaction across the NFL landscape. Paul Andrew Esden Jr., a prominent Jets commentator, took to social media on August 30, 2025, to highlight the significance of the news, tweeting, “Well that is an interesting report…@Connor_J_Hughes revealed that the #Jets were ‘very interested’ in signing QB Tommy DeVito.” The sentiment was echoed by fans and analysts alike, who were caught off guard by New England’s decisive action.
For the Jets, missing out on DeVito is a missed opportunity to add a proven, albeit young, quarterback to their roster. For the Patriots, it’s a masterstroke that not only bolsters their depth but also sends a message to their rivals. As the 2025 NFL season approaches, all eyes will be on DeVito to see if he can capitalize on this new opportunity in New England—and whether the Jets will regret letting him slip through their fingers.