Quick Read
- The Patriots released veteran quarterback Joshua Dobbs on March 23, 2026, to clear cap space.
- Tommy DeVito has been officially promoted to the No. 2 quarterback position behind starter Drake Maye.
- The move saves the organization $3 million in cap space, allowing for increased flexibility as they look to add a third quarterback.
FOXBOROUGH (Azat TV) – The New England Patriots officially released veteran quarterback Joshua Dobbs on Monday, March 23, 2026, a move that clarifies the team’s depth chart and creates immediate salary cap flexibility. The decision to part ways with the 31-year-old veteran comes after unsuccessful attempts to trade the signal-caller, ultimately leading the organization to pivot toward a more economical backup strategy behind starter Drake Maye.
Shifting the Quarterback Hierarchy
With Dobbs removed from the roster, the Patriots are officially elevating Tommy DeVito to the primary backup role. DeVito, who served as the emergency third quarterback throughout the 2025 season, re-signed with the club earlier this offseason on a two-year deal valued at up to $7.4 million. The promotion reflects the coaching staff’s growing confidence in DeVito, who head coach Mike Vrabel previously praised for his dedication and ability to acclimate to the offense under pressure.
The move carries significant financial implications. By releasing Dobbs, who was set to enter the final year of his contract, the Patriots clear approximately $3 million in salary cap space while avoiding a $3.7 million cash payout. Dobbs held a $4.75 million cap charge for the 2026 season, whereas DeVito’s cap hit sits at a much more manageable $1.55 million, allowing the front office to reallocate resources toward other roster needs.
The Search for a New Third Arm
While the focus is currently on the transition to DeVito, the quarterback room remains incomplete. Executive Vice President of Player Personnel Eliot Wolf is expected to add a third arm to the depth chart before the start of training camp. Given the organization’s historical preference for developing talent through the draft, experts anticipate the team may look toward the upcoming NFL Draft or the undrafted free agency pool to secure a developmental prospect.
Dobbs’ departure marks the end of a brief tenure in New England, where he appeared in four games during the 2025 season. His most notable contribution occurred during an October 19 victory over the Tennessee Titans, where he stepped in for an injured Maye to help close out a win. Despite that utility, the lack of substantial trade interest across the league underscored a shifting market for veteran backups, leaving the Patriots with little choice but to move on outright.
The strategic pivot to prioritize DeVito over a higher-priced veteran like Dobbs indicates that New England is prioritizing long-term cap efficiency and internal development over the security of a veteran presence, a clear sign that the team is comfortable with their current progression timeline for Drake Maye.