With the starting quarterback situation settled, as Drake Maye is entering his second season in the NFL, the Patriots appear to have run into a different problem that was not expected: who should be their backup?
Since he was signed earlier in the offseason, the job has belonged to Joshua Dobbs, and that appears to still be the plan going into roster cuts. The assumption is that rookie Ben Wooldridge will likely be headed to the practice squad and become an emergency player if needed. But there are a lot of questions surrounding that decision because of Dobbs' preseason performances.
Besides looking less than impressive on the field, many have felt he has put Patriots receivers in harm's way during games, some of which have resulted in injuries. Although there is no intention of seeing his teammates get hurt, his inconsistency as a backup might be enough for Mike Vrabel to explore other options.
One looks to have presented itself in Thursday's preseason finale, as the singled-out Giants quarterback is predicted to become available going into roster cuts next week.
The Patriots might want to make a call to the Giants about the availability of their backup quarterback
One of the more fascinating names in recent NFL history has been young quarterback Tommy DeVito. He caught on like wildfire in New York after being given a chance under center and was a viral sensation for his performance and his touchdown celebrations.
He played the majority of the game against the Patriots on Thursday night and performed at a level that could easily make him a tradeable player, and there's no reason for Vrabel not to get on the phone about getting a deal done.
DeVito recorded 17/20 receptions for 198 yards and three touchdowns. He completely dominated the Patriots defense with ease, even if it was their second and third stringers, and proved he could be a reliable backup option that the new regime could be comfortable with for the season ahead.
It could be more than enough reason to send a late-round draft pick to New York and add him to the roster to somewhat compete with Dobbs for the QB2 role. He could be a viable candidate for that spot for years to come, which is exactly what the Patriots need behind Maye for the foreseeable future.
Because the Giants have a jam packed quarterback room, led by veterans Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston, plus rookie Jaxson Dart, DeVito is the odd man out. They would be foolish not to trade him before the season begins, and the Patriots should be among the teams inquiring.
Although finding a backup quarterback isn't going to be a priority for the team, it is important because an injury can happen at any time. On top of that, if there is ever a time when they are far enough ahead in a game that they want to pull starters, they want to ensure they put in a player who won't create havoc and cost them the game, which could be a problem with Dobbs if his preseason performances continue.
DeVito would be an interesting addition to work behind Maye and also with offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. It's a move that the Patriots should, at the very least, get on the phone with Joe Schoen about as soon as possible.