New York Giants quarterback Tommy DeVito has long come from his undrafted rookie season and into an unlikely starting QB. And as he will lead the Giants this Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, DeVito seems determined to keep his focus where it should be—sticking to football. With the team struggling at 2-8, the 26-year-old knows the stakes are high, both for his career and the franchise’s future.
Boomer Esiason’s Advice Still Resonates
The Cinderella story of last season, the rise to fame of Tommy DeVito, stepping in as injuries took out Daniel Jones and Tyrod Taylor, made him a fan favorite. Seemingly overnight, with the unexpected playing time of the New Jersey native and an engaging personality, came the media appearances and even endorsements. But former Jets quarterback Boomer Esiason warned him to stay clear of distractions, advice that DeVito today says holds even more weight.
“Last year was a good story and all, how it happened,” DeVito told reporters on Wednesday, as shared by ESPN’s Jordan Raanan. “All the fun and games outside, it was fun. That was last year. I’m sticking to football now… The external stuff will be on pause.”
DeVito said he had already taken the first step and spoken to his inner circle to make sure his concentration was on football and producing on the field. Tightening his support system and staying off social media, he hopes, will eliminate any distractions from attempting to right the season for the Giants.
A New Era for the Giants—and DeVito
The Giants have undergone a dramatic shift at the quarterback position since DeVito’s rookie season. What was once thought of as a temporary fix, DeVito is behind the wheel, taking over the first-team reps from Daniel Jones. Jones is under contract through the upcoming season, but many believe he will be on his way out in 2025, opening the position up to anyone and everyone moving forward.
The decision to make DeVito a starter has indeed been quite contentious, with rumblings about locker room dissatisfaction due to the call to start him over QB2 Drew Lock. Additionally, speculation suggests that head coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen may be in a precarious job situation if their team finishes with less than five wins. These pressures frame DeVito’s need to prove himself to the fans, his teammates, and the organization.
“Trying to hone in on football,” DeVito added. “I’m really kind of staying off social media and the outside stuff.”
The Road Ahead
DeVito’s first test as the full-time starter will be against the 4-6 Buccaneers. Even at home, the Giants come into the game as six-point underdogs, according to DraftKings Sportsbook. The matchup presents a chance for DeVito to show his development and leadership, even as the team’s playoff hopes have fizzled.
For DeVito, though, this isn’t just about victories but rather respect from his teammates and showing the franchise he could be a long-term solution at quarterback. His decision to focus solely on football reflects a maturity that could help stabilize a turbulent season for the Giants.
With rumors abounding about potential shake-ups in the front office, DeVito’s next several weeks of performance could have a bearing on more than just the Giants‘ win-loss record: Every game’s an audition for a rebuild and an opportunity for DeVito to prove he’s the man for the job.
DeVito’s determination to block out the noise and focus on the game may provide the spark the Giants need in a season full of challenges. Of course, whether that translates to more wins remains to be seen, but this much is sure: DeVito is ready to make the most of his chance.
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