The New York Giants are making a major change to their offensive line for the final two weeks of the season. Quarterback Tommy DeVito, who has started the last six games for the team, is being moved to the bench. In his place, New York is going with veteran Tyrod Taylor.
It is an interesting decision given the fact that the Giants were eliminated from playoff contention with their loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 16. Taylor is also heading into free agency in 2024, as his future with the franchise could be coming to an end in two weeks.
But, head coach Brian Daboll has stated time and time again that he will play the guys who give him the best chance to win games. In the estimation of him and the coaching staff, that player moving forward is Taylor.
NFL News & Rumors: Tommy DeVito, Tyrod Taylor, Brian Daboll, New York Giants Updates
The writing was on the wall for DeVito, who has been struggling in the last two games. He was benched at halftime against the Eagles on Christmas Day after the Giants were down 20-3. That made it six straight quarters of DeVito and the Giants offense not scoring a touchdown.
Taylor came into the game and nearly orchestrated a comeback as New York ultimately lost 33-25. Despite being disappointed about the benching, DeVito handled the situation like a multi-year veteran despite being an undrafted rookie free agent.
“I’m going to continue to be a good teammate,” DeVito said, via SNY. “[It’s] obviously a coach’s decision. I have no say or anything in that, but I’m going to continue to be a good teammate, go out and compete, and that’s it.”
Daboll and the coaching staff told DeVito about the change on Wednesday. He is going to remain even-keeled despite the role change and will be ready should his number be called again.
“The same thing I’ve said since the beginning, stay even-keeled through it all, never too high, never too low,” DeVito said, via SNY. “Because, like I said, when you’re up, everybody loves you. When you’re down, everybody hates you. So for me, I’ll just stay even through it all, and that’s why I’ll be mellow and good through it all.”
NFL News & Rumors: Tommy DeVito, Tyrod Taylor, Brian Daboll, New York Giants Updates
Despite some shortcomings, DeVito did have a solid season given the circumstances. At the very least, he will be tied for the team lead in victories this season, as he has three.
He completed 63.6 percent of his passes, throwing for 1,087 yards with eight touchdowns and three interceptions. But, his shortcomings were in display at times, especially against stronger defenses, as he was missing reads that led to lackluster production.
But, as an undrafted free agent who wasn’t expected to play at all this season, DeVito played exceptionally well. At the very least, DeVito showed that he can start games and play at a competent level, providing the Giants with an option for their quarterback depth chart beyond 2023.
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