Patriots Make Bold Moves: Tommy DeVito Joins the Roster as Kendrick Bourne Exits!

The New England Patriots have made a significant move in their roster management by claiming quarterback Tommy DeVito off waivers from the New York Giants.

This decision comes as the Patriots look to solidify their quarterback depth, especially after parting ways with veteran wide receiver Kendrick Bourne, who had been unable to secure a trade.

DeVito, a former undrafted free agent, garnered attention during his time with the Giants, where he became a fan favorite due to his underdog story.

In the 2023 preseason, he showcased his skills, particularly in a standout performance against the Patriots’ backup defense, completing 17 of 20 passes for 198 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions.

This impressive outing likely caught the eye of Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, who emphasized the importance of strengthening the roster at key positions.

“Just strengthening our roster, certainly at a premium position,” Vrabel stated on Wednesday.

The Patriots’ quarterback lineup now includes starter Drake Maye and backup Joshua Dobbs, with DeVito stepping in as the third option.

The team had been seeking a No.

3 quarterback since releasing undrafted free agent Ben Wooldridge just days prior.

Vrabel expressed satisfaction with Dobbs’ performance during the preseason, noting that he has shown improvement after some initial struggles.

“Each move that we’ll make may not be an indication of what the players are at that position,” he explained, indicating that these decisions are part of a broader strategy to enhance the overall roster.

The Giants had a crowded quarterback room, featuring Russell Wilson, first-round draft pick Jaxson Dart, and veteran Jameis Winston.

DeVito acknowledged the pressure of performing well, stating, “Any time you go out on the field, no matter where you are — especially being undrafted — you’re performing for all 31 organizations as well.”

His departure was met with mixed feelings from Giants general manager Joe Schoen, who expressed happiness for DeVito while also lamenting the loss of a promising player.

In addition to claiming DeVito, the Patriots also acquired former Los Angeles Rams cornerback Charles Woods on waivers.

To accommodate Woods, the team waived second-year wide receiver Javon Baker.

These roster adjustments reflect the Patriots’ ongoing efforts to optimize their lineup ahead of the regular season.

The release of Kendrick Bourne, a nine-year veteran, marks a significant shift for the Patriots.

Over his career, Bourne has amassed 292 receptions for 3,714 yards and 22 touchdowns, making him a reliable asset.

He was one of eight receivers retained on the Patriots’ initial 53-man roster, a decision that hinted at potential changes in the receiving corps.

Bourne had been sidelined since August 1 due to an injury sustained during an intrasquad scrimmage but was nearing a return.

His absence from practice may have contributed to the decision to release him, particularly with the Patriots looking to streamline their roster.

Bourne’s versatility as a receiver added to his value, and he had expressed optimism about the return of former offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, hoping to replicate his successful 2021 season.

During that standout year, Bourne recorded 55 catches for 800 yards and five touchdowns, showcasing his ability to play multiple receiver positions.

His departure from New England opens up opportunities for younger players, including rookies Kyle Williams and Efton Chism III, as well as fourth-round draft pick Javon Baker.

Interestingly, the San Francisco 49ers, where Bourne spent the first four years of his NFL career, have reportedly shown interest in bringing him back.

This potential reunion could provide Bourne with another opportunity to contribute to a team in need of receiver depth.

As the Patriots move forward with their new roster configuration, the focus will be on how well Tommy DeVito can adapt to his new environment and whether the team can maintain its offensive capabilities without Bourne.

The upcoming season promises to be an exciting one for New England, as they navigate these changes and aim for success in a competitive league.