Tommy Chowder just doesn’t have the same ring to it. But that’s what New England Patriots fans are getting now that their team frustratingly swiped New York Giants fan favorite Tommy DeVito off waivers. Per ESPN’s Field Yates, New England claimed the former undrafted quarterback before the G-Men could tuck him away on the practice squad. Tommy Cutlets was released before the roster cut deadline.
The Patriots have claimed QB Tommy DeVito off of waivers.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) August 27, 2025
DeVito wasn’t just another name on the roster bubble. He was the hometown kid with a nickname, a touchdown celebration, and an entire fanbase behind him. Giants fans didn’t just root for him — they lived vicariously through him. And after a strong preseason that reminded everyone why he earned the starting nod in 2023, there was real hope he could stick around as QB4 or at least land back in the building on Wednesday.
Instead, it's pack your bags and head up I-95, in a move that feels oddly personal.
New England Patriots steal Giants fan favorite QB Tommy DeVito off waivers
It’s hard not to see the irony here. Big Blue ended the Patriots’ dynasty with two of the most historic Super Bowl upsets ever. And now, the Pats get their version of revenge by taking one of New York’s most beloved players in recent memory — an electric backup quarterback with real moxie.
It can't be overstated how good DeVito looked this preseason. He was more comfortable, more confident, and more efficient than ever before. But there just wasn’t room. Russell Wilson is the starter, Jameis Winston wasn't going anywhere, and Jaxson Dart is the quarterback of the future. DeVito was the odd man out. Still, fans hoped he’d be back. Practice squad, emergency call-up, whatever it took.
Now that’s off the table. And it didn’t take long. DeVito didn’t clear waivers. He didn’t get a hero’s return. Maybe Tommy Chowder will catch on in Foxborough. But for Giants fans, it just leaves a bad taste.