FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – The Recent England Patriots are moving forward with a new look at the quarterback position, informing veteran Joshua Dobbs of their intention to release him, according to reports. The move comes after the team secured a two-year contract for Tommy DeVito, positioning him as the likely backup to starter Drake Maye for the 2026 NFL season.
Dobbs, 31, served as Maye’s primary backup throughout the 2025 campaign. His base salary for the upcoming season was slated at $3.2 million, with a $4.75 million cap hit. The contract likewise included $25,000 bonuses for each game he was on the active roster, plus a $75,000 workout bonus. The Patriots’ decision to part ways with Dobbs is largely driven by financial considerations, as DeVito’s contract presents a more manageable salary cap situation.
DeVito’s new deal is a two-year contract with a base salary of $4.4 million. The agreement includes incentives that could increase the total value of the contract to $7.4 million. This cost-effectiveness played a key role in the Patriots’ decision to elevate DeVito to the No. 2 spot. The team is expected to add a third quarterback during the offseason to round out the depth chart.
While primarily a backup, Dobbs demonstrated his capabilities in a pivotal game against the Tennessee Titans on October 19th. Stepping in for Maye in the third quarter due to a concussion evaluation, Dobbs completed passes of 12 yards and 5 yards to DeMario Douglas. Maye later returned to lead the Patriots to a 31-13 victory. That performance, though brief, highlighted Dobbs’ ability to contribute when called upon.
Throughout the 2025 season, Dobbs saw action in four games, primarily in closing moments of contests already decided, often taking a knee to run out the clock. Despite limited playing time, he remained a prepared and reliable presence in the quarterback room.
The Patriots’ quarterback situation has been a focal point since drafting Drake Maye. Securing a capable backup is crucial for any team, and the Patriots appear to have found that in DeVito. The move allows them to manage their salary cap effectively while maintaining a level of experience and preparedness behind their young franchise quarterback.
The release of Dobbs marks a shift in the Patriots’ quarterback strategy. While he proved to be a valuable asset during his time in New England, the team has opted for a more financially sustainable option in Tommy DeVito. Fans will be watching closely to see how DeVito performs in his new role as Maye’s primary backup.
The Patriots will now turn their attention to the offseason, focusing on filling out the remainder of their roster and preparing for the 2026 season. Adding a third quarterback will be a priority, ensuring they have adequate depth at the position. The team will also be looking to build on the progress they made in 2025, aiming for a stronger performance in the upcoming year.
The decision to release Dobbs and promote DeVito underscores the Patriots’ commitment to building a competitive roster while managing their financial resources effectively. It’s a move that reflects the realities of the NFL, where strategic roster management is just as important as on-field talent.
The Patriots’ next official team activity will be the start of the offseason workout program, scheduled to begin in April. This will provide an opportunity for DeVito to integrate fully into his new role and build chemistry with Maye and the rest of the offense. Fans can follow updates on the team’s official website, www.patriots.com, for the latest news and information.
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