Patriots to Release Dobbs, Elevate DeVito to QB2

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- The New England Patriots have informed backup quarterback Joshua Dobbs of their decision to release him, according to sources reported by ESPN.

At 31 years old, Dobbs served as the second-string quarterback behind Drake Maye during the 2025 season. He was slated to earn a base salary of $3.2 million in 2026, with a salary cap charge of $4.75 million. His contract included per-game roster bonuses totaling $25,000, which could reach up to $425,000, along with a $75,000 workout bonus.

This decision follows the Patriots' signing of Tommy DeVito to a two-year contract worth a base value of $4.4 million. DeVito was not tendered as a restricted free agent prior to this deal, which includes performance incentives that could raise its value to $7.4 million.

As a result, the team is expected to promote DeVito to the No. 2 quarterback position, taking advantage of his more cost-effective contract. The Patriots are anticipated to add a third-string quarterback later in the offseason.

Dobbs' standout moment with the Patriots occurred during a 31-13 victory over the Tennessee Titans on October 19, when he entered the game after Maye was evaluated for a concussion early in the third quarter. Dobbs successfully completed a 12-yard pass to receiver DeMario Douglas on a crucial third-and-5 play, which set up a touchdown drive. This contributed to the Patriots extending their lead to 24-13.

Throughout the previous season, Dobbs participated in only four games, primarily taking knees at the conclusion of victorious matches.