The New York Giants release Tommy DeVito after preseason cuts, ending his fan-favorite run as “Tommy Cutlets.” Explore his stats, Giants’ QB depth chart, and what’s next for DeVito in the NFL.
New York Giants Release Tommy DeVito: A Full Breakdown
The New York Giants release Tommy DeVito, marking the end of a short but memorable era for the quarterback who became a local fan favorite in New Jersey. Known affectionately as “Tommy Cutlets,” DeVito won over Giants fans with his underdog story, but the franchise’s roster decisions for the 2025 NFL season left no room for him on the final 53-man roster.
This decision comes after the Giants added Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston, and rookie Jaxson Dart to their quarterback depth chart. With three established options, the Giants could not justify keeping four quarterbacks, leaving DeVito as the odd man out.
Why the New York Giants Released Tommy DeVito
The New York Giants release Tommy DeVito largely because of the team’s offseason moves. Despite DeVito’s strong preseason, head coach Brian Daboll admitted there was no realistic chance of carrying four quarterbacks on the active roster.
Key Factors:
- Roster depth: Wilson, Winston, and Dart provide experience and upside.
- Salary cap: Keeping four QBs limits flexibility at other positions.
- Team strategy: Giants prefer veteran leadership and rookie development over a fourth quarterback option.
While fans rallied behind DeVito’s story, the NFL is ultimately a business.
Tommy DeVito’s NFL Career with the Giants
Although short-lived, DeVito’s time with the Giants was filled with memorable moments. He went from undrafted free agent to starting quarterback during an injury-plagued 2024 season. His Italian-American roots and New Jersey upbringing made him a natural fan favorite.
Tommy DeVito Career Stats with Giants
| Category | Stat (Career) |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 12 |
| Games Started | 8 |
| Completions | 65% |
| Passing Yards | 1,358 |
| Touchdowns | 8 |
| Interceptions | 3 |
These numbers may not rival elite quarterbacks, but for an undrafted rookie, they represented resilience and determination.
Preseason Performance Before Release
In the 2025 preseason, DeVito delivered one of the most efficient stat lines among backup quarterbacks.
| Category | Stat (Preseason 2025) |
|---|---|
| Completions | 30/38 |
| Passing Yards | 323 |
| Touchdowns | 4 |
| Interceptions | 1 |
Despite these numbers, the New York Giants release Tommy DeVito due to roster limitations rather than poor play.
The Rise of “Tommy Cutlets”
Few NFL players built as strong of a cult following as DeVito. Nicknamed “Tommy Cutlets”, he embraced his Italian-American heritage, frequently celebrating touchdowns with family-inspired gestures. His background as a northern New Jersey native made his Giants journey feel like a local fairytale.
Fans embraced him not just for his underdog story, but because he represented the community. Unfortunately, fairytales in professional football don’t always last long.
Giants Quarterback Depth Chart After DeVito’s Release
With the New York Giants release Tommy DeVito finalized, the quarterback depth chart looks set for 2025:
| QB Name | Experience | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Russell Wilson | Super Bowl Champion | Likely Starter |
| Jameis Winston | Veteran Journeyman | Backup QB |
| Jaxson Dart | Rookie (1st-Round Pick) | Development QB |
This trio balances veteran leadership with rookie development, aligning with the Giants’ future direction.
Brian Daboll on DeVito’s Release
Coach Daboll praised DeVito’s efforts:
“Tommy did everything we asked of him in camp and preseason. He competed hard, but we just couldn’t keep four quarterbacks. He’s a true professional, and we wish him the best.”
The Giants left the door open for DeVito to return via the practice squad, but interest from other NFL teams remains possible.
What’s Next for Tommy DeVito?
The New York Giants release Tommy DeVito, but his NFL journey may not be over. Several scenarios could unfold:
- Giants Practice Squad – The most likely short-term option.
- Third-String QB Role – Other NFL teams in need of depth may sign him.
- Future Coaching/Development Role – With his football IQ, coaching could be a long-term career path.
Given his popularity and professionalism, DeVito is unlikely to remain unsigned for long.
Fan Reaction to DeVito’s Release
Social media erupted when news broke that the New York Giants release Tommy DeVito. Giants fans expressed disappointment, citing his work ethic, preseason stats, and community connection. Many hoped he would remain as a practice squad QB to stay close to the organization.
His release highlights the difficult decisions teams must make as they trim rosters down to 53 players.
NFL Context: Roster Cut Deadline
The timing of DeVito’s release coincides with the NFL’s mandatory roster cut deadline. Every team must finalize a 53-man roster, forcing tough choices on fan-favorite players.
In this case, DeVito was a victim of numbers, depth, and strategy rather than performance.
Long-Term Outlook for Giants Quarterbacks
By choosing Wilson, Winston, and Dart, the Giants are signaling both win-now intentions and future development.
- Russell Wilson: Brings championship experience.
- Jameis Winston: Offers a steady veteran presence.
- Jaxson Dart: Represents the future of the franchise.
Unfortunately, there was no room for DeVito in this structure.
FAQs on New York Giants Release Tommy DeVito
1. Why did the New York Giants release Tommy DeVito?
The Giants released DeVito due to roster depth at quarterback, after signing Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston, and drafting Jaxson Dart.
2. Could Tommy DeVito return to the Giants?
Yes, the Giants could bring him back on the practice squad if he clears waivers.
3. What are Tommy DeVito’s NFL stats?
He completed 65% of his passes for 1,358 yards, 8 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions across 12 games.
4. What is DeVito’s nickname?
Fans know him as “Tommy Cutlets”, a nod to his Italian-American roots.
5. Which NFL teams might sign DeVito?
Any team in need of third-string QB depth could consider him, especially those with injury concerns.
📌 Conclusion
The New York Giants release Tommy DeVito signals the end of a unique chapter in franchise history. While his time with the Giants was brief, DeVito’s story resonated with fans, and his future in football remains open. Whether he returns to the practice squad or signs elsewhere, one thing is clear: the legacy of “Tommy Cutlets” will live on among Giants supporters.