Patriots' Tommy DeVito happy to put 'Tommy Cutlets' Giants run behind him

Quarterback Tommy DeVito never came all that close to emerging as more than a cult hero among New York Giants fans during his memorable stint with the organization. However, the New Jersey native will become a Super Bowl champion if his New England Patriots defeat the Seattle Seahawks this coming Sunday night. 

While speaking with reporters during the "Super Bowl XL Opening Night" festivities on Monday, DeVito suggested he has put his time with the Giants behind him. 

Tommy DeVito now "happy" as a backup with the Patriots

"That was cool and fun, but that’s a Jersey, New York thing, if you will," DeVito said about briefly serving as a Giants star, per Ryan Dunleavy of the New York Post. "That’s going to be tied to that. Mainly, because I’m from there. That was one of the most special teams in my life — and I love it every time I go back — but this is a different version of myself, and I’m happy with that."

During the 2023 season, DeVito went 3-1 across his first four starts as an undrafted free agent called into action because then-Giants QB1 Daniel Jones and Tyrod Taylor were both sidelined with injuries. While DeVito became a local sensation wanted for public appearances, he ultimately was deemed surplus to requirements this past summer after the Giants made quarterback Jaxson Dart a 2025 first-round draft pick. 

"I’m looked at as Tommy DeVito the football player and not 'Tommy Cutlets,'" DeVito said about serving as New England's QB3 behind starter Drake Maye and primary backup Joshua Dobbs. 

DeVito will now be tasked with playing the role of Seattle starter Sam Darnold during practices ahead of the Super Bowl. 

"As a competitor, you always want to play," DeVito acknowledged. "But my role each week, I am giving our defensive guys a look akin to no other. Trying to replicate, I’m watching film on the [opposing] quarterbacks to give them the best possible advantage."

Tommy DeVito still reflects fondly on Giants tenure

Giants fans throughout the New Jersey/New York region will remember the highs of DeVito's run rather than the fact that he lost his final four starts with the club. One can only guess where DeVito would be this week if the Giants didn't take a flier on him back in 2023. 

"Adversity brings out the best in you," DeVito added. "My time in New York…was filled with ups and downs. That was so beneficial for my career because I’ve seen a lot in a little time. The good, the bad and the ugly."