Posted on Aug 27

Tommy DeVito: \'You\'re performing for all 31 organizations as well\' after joining Patriots

Posted Aug 27, 2025

The New England Patriots have claimed quarterback Tommy DeVito and cornerback Charles Woods from waivers, while planning to release veteran wide receiver Kendrick Bourne.

Why it matters: This move indicates a shift in the Patriots' roster strategy as they look to bolster their quarterback depth and reshape their receiving corps amid an injury and performance-driven evaluation process.

Tommy DeVito, who gained recognition as an undrafted free agent this past offseason, showcased impressive skills during the preseason, completing 17 of 20 passes for 198 yards and three touchdowns in his final game with the New York Giants.
The Patriots will now add DeVito to a quarterback room led by starter Drake Maye and backup Joshua Dobbs, highlighting their commitment to developing young talent.

What's new: As part of these roster changes, the Patriots will release Kendrick Bourne, a nine-year veteran who has been sidelined since August 1 due to injury.

Bourne recorded 292 receptions for 3,714 yards and 22 touchdowns throughout his career, with a standout season in 2021 where he caught 55 passes for 800 yards and five touchdowns.
His exit comes after unsuccessful trade talks, suggesting the team is prioritizing flexibility over retaining experience in their receiving group.

What to watch: The addition of DeVito brings intrigue regarding how he might fit into the Patriots' offensive scheme moving forward.

With the Patriots employing a diverse offensive approach that incorporates elements of both the West Coast and spread systems, DeVito's skill set could be utilized effectively alongside other emerging receivers like Stefon Diggs, Kayshon Boutte, and rookies Kyle Williams and Efton Chism III.
Meanwhile, Bourne’s potential return to the San Francisco 49ers, where he previously thrived, adds another layer to the narrative surrounding his departure from New England.

Yes, but: While DeVito's strong preseason performance raises expectations, the transition from undrafted free agent to a viable NFL quarterback remains challenging.

“Any time you go out on the field, no matter where you are—especially being undrafted—you’re performing for all 31 organizations as well,” DeVito noted, emphasizing the pressure that accompanies his new opportunity.
It remains to be seen whether he can translate his preseason success into productive regular-season performances.

The bottom line: As the Patriots continue to refine their roster, the claims of DeVito and Woods reflect a broader strategy of building for the future while making necessary adjustments to address immediate needs within the squad.

The team's ability to integrate new players effectively will be vital as they navigate the complexities of the 2023 season, especially in a competitive AFC landscape.

Tommy DeVito: \'You\'re performing for all 31 organizations as well\' after joining Patriots

Alex Parker

Posted Aug 27, 2025

The New England Patriots have claimed quarterback Tommy DeVito and cornerback Charles Woods from waivers, while planning to release veteran wide receiver Kendrick Bourne.

Tommy DeVito, who gained recognition as an undrafted free agent this past offseason, showcased impressive skills during the preseason, completing 17 of 20 passes for 198 yards and three touchdowns in his final game with the New York Giants.

The Patriots will now add DeVito to a quarterback room led by starter Drake Maye and backup Joshua Dobbs, highlighting their commitment to developing young talent.

What's new: As part of these roster changes, the Patriots will release Kendrick Bourne, a nine-year veteran who has been sidelined since August 1 due to injury.

Bourne recorded 292 receptions for 3,714 yards and 22 touchdowns throughout his career, with a standout season in 2021 where he caught 55 passes for 800 yards and five touchdowns.

His exit comes after unsuccessful trade talks, suggesting the team is prioritizing flexibility over retaining experience in their receiving group.

What to watch: The addition of DeVito brings intrigue regarding how he might fit into the Patriots' offensive scheme moving forward.

With the Patriots employing a diverse offensive approach that incorporates elements of both the West Coast and spread systems, DeVito's skill set could be utilized effectively alongside other emerging receivers like Stefon Diggs, Kayshon Boutte, and rookies Kyle Williams and Efton Chism III.

Meanwhile, Bourne’s potential return to the San Francisco 49ers, where he previously thrived, adds another layer to the narrative surrounding his departure from New England.

Yes, but: While DeVito's strong preseason performance raises expectations, the transition from undrafted free agent to a viable NFL quarterback remains challenging.

“Any time you go out on the field, no matter where you are—especially being undrafted—you’re performing for all 31 organizations as well,” DeVito noted, emphasizing the pressure that accompanies his new opportunity.

It remains to be seen whether he can translate his preseason success into productive regular-season performances.

The team's ability to integrate new players effectively will be vital as they navigate the complexities of the 2023 season, especially in a competitive AFC landscape.