Undrafted free agents. Once the NFL Draft ends, phones are still buzzing for guys who weren’t chosen but are still wanted by 32 teams. For the New York Giants, quarterback Tommy Devito was one of those guys signed to the team.
It’s clear Daniel Jones is and will be the starter for the foreseeable future. So, why does an undrafted quarterback from Illinois even in a conversation? Here’s why Tommy Devito is someone to monitor.
A Developmental Prospect
Born in New Jersey, Devito signing with the G-Men seemed like a childhood dream. To play in a stadium 20 minutes away from your childhood home is something everyone dreams of. A local legend himself, as he led Don Bosco High School to a state championship in 2015.
His performance in high school led to a scholarship to the University of Syracuse. The injury bug affected three of his four seasons as a member of the Orange. With the exception of 2019, he failed to throw for 600 yards in a season and threw at most four touchdowns.
2019 was his only positive season at Syracuse. He completed 63% of his passes for 2,360 yards and 19 touchdowns. Despite that, his inability to stay healthy led to a transfer to Illinois as a fifth-year senior.
2022 was a productive season for Devito. He threw for 2,650 yards along with 15 touchdowns, leading the Fighting Illini to an 8-5 record.
Tommy Devito is putting on a show today ?
— FanSided (@FanSided) October 1, 2022
?: @CFBONFOXpic.twitter.com/qTVzrSpKy2
I spoke with a close friend of mine who watched Devito during his time at Syracuse and Illinois. Here are a few points.
- When healthy, he’s a proficient quarterback
- Flashes great arm strength, throws look effortless at times.
- Not a scrambling quarterback, but has enough agility to create plays.
- Injury-prone
- Inconsistent with his throws
- Good leadership qualities, beloved by his teammates
Why He Has A Chance To Be The Backup
Despite his inconsistencies and struggles, Devito has impressed the Giants so far during his time there.
Tommy DeVito to Jalin Hyatt followed by Bryce to Bryce, Perkins to Ford-Wheaton #NYGiants pic.twitter.com/kb4ZDzY0As
— Art Stapleton (@art_stapleton) May 5, 2023
Rookie RB Eric Gray working out in the flats at #Giants OTAs. Catching passes from Tommy DeVito #togetherblue pic.twitter.com/YyaV6lZsbT
— Eric Samulski (@SamskiNYC) May 25, 2023
Even Coach Brian Daboll knows how well-known DeVito is in New Jersey.
Brian Daboll on QB Tommy Devito
— Talkin’ Giants (@TalkinGiants) May 5, 2023
“He’s a local legend around here” pic.twitter.com/vmZfo2HbTI
There were times when Tyrod Taylor was serviceable as Jones’s backup last season. But, he has been known to be injury-prone himself. If DeVito continues to show out during OTA’s and training camp, there’s a chance he makes the roster as the third quarterback and continues to challenge Taylor for the #2 spot.
Beware of the quiet man. This is why Tommy Devito is someone to monitor as we progress this off-season.
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