Tommy DeVito: The Underdog Quarterback Making His NFL Debut With The Giants

New York Giants quarterback Tommy DeVito is set to make his first NFL start against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday. This moment is not just a milestone for DeVito but also a significant moment for the Giants franchise, as he becomes the first undrafted rookie to start at quarterback in a non-strike game for the team in the common draft era. His ascent to the starting role is particularly notable given the challenging circumstances that led to his elevation; Daniel Jones, the team's starter, tore his ACL, and backup Tyrod Taylor is on injured reserve with a rib injury.

As DeVito prepares for his debut, he acknowledges the gravity of the situation. "I think it’s a shock to everybody," DeVito said regarding the injuries to his teammates. "Not to have one quarterback but two quarterbacks go down, I mean it’s tough. The quarterback position runs the team, and to have one and two go down like that, you would’ve never guessed that to happen." This sentiment encapsulates the unpredictability of football and the resilience required to navigate such challenges.

Aside from sharing a name with a famous character from "GoodFellas," many NFL fans might not know much about Tommy DeVito. Ahead of his first start, let's delve into some key facts about this promising young quarterback who is ready to take the field.

Background and Early Life

Born in Livingston, New Jersey, Tommy DeVito's journey to the NFL began in his hometown, just 20 miles from MetLife Stadium, where the Giants play. This proximity to the team has undoubtedly fueled his passion and dedication to the sport. DeVito played his high school football at Don Bosco Preparatory School, where he not only showcased his talent but also led his team to a New Jersey state title as a junior. His impressive performance earned him recognition as a four-star recruit and the No. 8 pro-style quarterback in his class by 247Sports.

DeVito's strong foundation in football laid the groundwork for his collegiate career. After committing to Syracuse, he faced a redshirt season but quickly made an impact, becoming a full-time starter and throwing a career-high 19 touchdowns. Despite facing setbacks, including a leg injury in 2020, DeVito's determination shone through as he later transferred to Illinois to finish his college career.

Career Journey Leading to the Giants

Tommy DeVito's path to the NFL was not straightforward, as he played at two different colleges. His time at Syracuse set the stage for his development, but it was at Illinois that he truly flourished, leading the Fighting Illini to eight wins and accumulating 2,650 passing yards in his final season. Over his college career, he amassed a total of 6,516 passing yards and 43 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure and adapt to various playing styles.

After going undrafted, DeVito signed with the New York Giants, where he faced the challenge of competing against more experienced quarterbacks. Despite this, his familiarity with the team's playbook, having been with the organization since the spring, ultimately led to him being named the starter for the upcoming game against the Cowboys.

Preparing for His NFL Debut

As DeVito gears up for his first NFL start, he understands the significance of this moment—not just for himself but for the organization and its fans. He acknowledges the support he's received from friends and family, many of whom are lifelong Giants fans. "The family, the friends, everybody that’s been reaching out, I think that’s been kind of like the shock of it," DeVito shared. "But for me, it's football, right? It's another day."

With the weight of expectations on his shoulders, DeVito is determined to approach the game with a clear mindset. "No nerves, just excitement," he said. "I have a life rule. It’s Rule No. 1: Don’t panic. That is the thing I’ve always leaned on. It’s a game. It’s football. Yeah, there is a lot on the line, but at the end of the day, you play this game because you love it." This perspective is crucial as he navigates his debut against a formidable opponent in the Dallas Cowboys.

Tommy DeVito's Personal Information

Looking Ahead

Tommy DeVito's journey to the NFL is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the ability to seize opportunities when they arise. As he prepares to take the field against the Cowboys, all eyes will be on him to see how he measures up in this high-stakes environment. The challenges of starting as an undrafted rookie quarterback are daunting, but DeVito's attitude and preparation suggest that he is ready to embrace this new chapter in his football career.

Only time will tell how DeVito performs in his debut, but the excitement surrounding his start is palpable. Fans and teammates are hopeful that he can lead the Giants to victory, bringing a sense of renewed optimism to the team as they look to turn their season around.