New England Patriots backup quarterback Tommy DeVito has recently been given a fresh nickname, “Two Chains,” by head coach Mike Vrabel, moving past his well-known “Tommy Cutlets” moniker. This change in identity stems from DeVito’s consistent fashion statement of wearing two gold chains, prompting Vrabel to coin the new, more descriptive name. While the original “Tommy Cutlets” had gained significant national popularity during his tenure with the New York Giants, the new “Two Chains” is quickly gaining traction among Patriots fans and within the team. DeVito, currently competing for the second-string quarterback position, is working to establish himself as a key player behind starter Drake Maye, with his performance in preseason games being crucial to solidifying his role on the team.
DeVito’s journey with the Patriots began in 2025 as the third-string quarterback, and he is now actively vying for the primary backup role against rookie Behren Morton. In the initial preseason matchup, DeVito displayed a strong performance, completing 13 of 22 passes for 138 yards and a touchdown, surpassing Morton’s statistics. Despite Morton leading the team to a potential game-winning field goal attempt, the kick was ultimately missed. DeVito attributes his performance to getting “into that flow” and “feeling it,” highlighting the importance of team cohesion. With additional preseason games scheduled, the competition remains open, and DeVito is determined to prove his capabilities and secure his spot as the team’s reliable backup.
The Evolution of Tommy DeVito’s Nicknames
Tommy DeVito, the New England Patriots' backup quarterback, has undergone a nickname transformation, moving from the popular “Tommy Cutlets” to the newly assigned “Two Chains” by head coach Mike Vrabel. The “Tommy Cutlets” nickname originated during his time with the New York Giants, where he gained recognition not only for his on-field play but also for his proud Italian heritage and his mother’s homemade chicken cutlets. This personal touch endeared him to fans, making him a national sensation. However, upon joining the Patriots, Vrabel noticed DeVito’s consistent choice to wear two gold chains, inspiring the new, more contemporary nickname. This shift reflects a personal observation by his current coach, highlighting a distinct aspect of DeVito’s current persona within the team environment.
The transition to “Two Chains” is a playful acknowledgment of DeVito’s fashion preference. DeVito himself explained that Vrabel initially used “Cutlets” but quickly adopted “Two Chains” after noticing his jewelry. This informal naming convention has resonated with some Patriots fans online, who have expressed enthusiasm for the new moniker. While “Tommy Cutlets” had a broader appeal due to its relatable and endearing backstory, “Two Chains” is rapidly gaining traction within the Patriots’ inner circle. The evolving nicknames reflect DeVito's journey and adaptations as he progresses through his NFL career, showcasing how personal traits and team dynamics can shape a player's public identity.
Tommy DeVito’s Position in the Patriots’ Quarterback Hierarchy
In the current New England Patriots quarterback landscape, Drake Maye is firmly established as the starting quarterback, leaving the backup roles open for competition. Tommy DeVito, who joined the Patriots in 2025, is now making a strong push to secure the second-string position. His journey to this point included being the third-string quarterback behind Joshua Dobbs, which meant he saw no playing time in the previous season. With Dobbs no longer on the roster, DeVito has a clear opportunity to solidify his place as the primary backup, a role that becomes critical in the event of an injury to the starter, as history has shown with legendary figures like Tom Brady stepping in for Drew Bledsoe.
DeVito’s competition for the backup role primarily comes from rookie Behren Morton, a seventh-round draft pick from Texas Tech. While Morton had a successful collegiate career, he lacks NFL experience. In their first preseason outing, DeVito showcased his veteran edge, completing 13 of 22 passes for 138 yards and a touchdown, outperforming Morton’s 7 of 13 for 66 yards. Although Morton did lead a drive that resulted in a missed game-winning field goal, DeVito’s statistical advantage and composure were evident. DeVito emphasized the importance of finding a “flow” in the game, stating that when “stuff is going to click” and “guys around you are playing, it just becomes easy.” With two more preseason games remaining, DeVito currently holds the inside track, but the competition is far from over, as both players aim to prove their readiness to step in if needed.
