Giants' Tommy DeVito reflects on 'roller coaster' rookie season

New York Giants rookie quarterback Tommy DeVito sounds ready to build upon his brief run as the club's starter this season that nobody saw coming back in September. 

"It’s been a roller coaster, this whole season," DeVito acknowledged on Thursday, as shared by Dan Martin of the New York Post. "There’s been a lot of good in there and that’s what I focus on."

An undrafted free agent, DeVito was first called into action in late October when Week 1 starter Daniel Jones and primary backup Tyrod Taylor were both sidelined with injuries. The 25-year-old native of New Jersey quickly became a local sensation who went 3-1 across his first four starts, and he also made numerous public appearances amid his rise to fame. However, he hasn't played since he was benched during the Christmas Day game at the Philadelphia Eagles.

Taylor is starting ahead of DeVito for Sunday's season finale versus Philadelphia.

"I’ve talked to [Jones] and Tyrod about what the offseason process is like," DeVito added about working throughout the winter and spring to hold onto his roster spot through Week 1 of the 2024 campaign. "Stuff like how long to take off from throwing. I’ve always taken time off, but now it’s your job. In college, it’s more structured. Now, I’ll literally be on my own 'till (organized team activities). You have to have a plan and that’s what I’m going to get from the older guys."

Across eight games and six starts, DeVito completed 112-of-176 passes (63.6%) for 1,087 yards with eight touchdowns and three interceptions. He also rushed for 195 yards and a score on 36 carries. 

"I’m still trying to learn as much as I can, whether it’s in the film room, practice, [or on the] sideline," DeVito explained about serving as Taylor's backup. 

The Giants may draft Jones' eventual replacement this spring but likely will hold onto the 26-year-old through next season due to the contract he signed in March 2023. It's unclear if DeVito has a future with the organization past this Sunday even though many fans want to see "Tommy Cutlets" stay with his hometown team.