Patriots Update Quarterback Depth Chart for 2026 The New England Patriots are set to replace their current backup quarterback, Joshua Dobbs, with Tommy DeVito as the new second-stringer behind Drake Maye. According to NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport, the team plans to release Dobbs, a move that would save the Patriots approximately $3.7 million in salary and create only $1.05 million in dead cap obligations. Dobbs, who spent the 2025 season as Maye’s backup, saw limited playing time, appearing in just four games. His most significant action came in Week 7 against the Tennessee Titans, where he entered the game briefly after Maye was pulled for a concussion evaluation. Dobbs completed a single pass attempt, converting a third down to DeMario Douglas, before Maye returned to finish the drive, which ended with a Rhamondre Stevenson touchdown. The Patriots’ decision to part ways with Dobbs appears to be a strategic move to prioritize DeVito, a 2025 third-stringer they re-signed to a two-year deal. DeVito, who has eight NFL starts and backup experience, will now serve as Maye’s primary backup. The team has already engaged in trade discussions involving Dobbs, though the release seems likely to finalize after the free agency period. DeVito’s contract includes up to $2.3 million in salary and bonuses for 2026, with $2 million guaranteed. With Dobbs’ departure, the Patriots will need to identify a new third-string quarterback to handle practice drills and serve as an emergency backup. The team may target a veteran willing to take on a limited role, as the current roster lacks depth at the position. DeVito, though 27 years old, has only two seasons of NFL game experience, making him a relative newcomer.#ian_rapoport #new_england_patriots #drake_maye #tommy_devito #joshua_dobbs
Patriots Release Joshua Dobbs, Promote Tommy DeVito to QB2 The New England Patriots announced on Monday that they have released quarterback Joshua Dobbs, moving Tommy DeVito into the No. 2 quarterback role. Dobbs, 31, had served as the team’s backup behind Drake Maye during the 2025 season. His release comes after the Patriots signed DeVito to a two-year contract worth up to $7.4 million, including incentives, following their decision not to tender him as a restricted free agent. Dobbs’ contract included a base salary of $3.2 million for 2026 and a $4.75 million salary cap charge. The deal also featured per-game roster bonuses of $25,000, with a potential total of $425,000, as well as a $75,000 workout bonus. The Patriots’ move to cut Dobbs and elevate DeVito reflects their strategy to prioritize cost-effective depth while building a more competitive roster. DeVito, now set to assume the No. 2 role, signed a deal with a base value of $4.4 million. The team plans to add a third quarterback later in the offseason, further solidifying their options at the position. This adjustment underscores the Patriots’ focus on balancing financial responsibility with long-term developmental goals. Dobbs’ most notable performance with the Patriots occurred during a 31-13 victory over the Tennessee Titans on October 19. In that game, Maye left the field early in the third quarter for a concussion evaluation, and Dobbs took over. On third-and-5, he completed a 12-yard pass to DeMario Douglas, setting up a touchdown drive that put the Patriots ahead 24-13. The team went on to secure the win, highlighting Dobbs’ ability to step in under pressure. Despite his strong showing in that game, Dobbs saw limited action in 2025, playing in just four games.#new_england_patriots #tennessee_titans #drake_maye #joshua_dobbs #tommy_devito
