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Jordan Raanan, ESPN Staff Writer
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – All the hype surrounding quarterback Tommy DeVito last year made him an instant sensation. Now, in his second stint as the New York Giants’ starting quarterback, he’s trying to keep it light.
The local product and undrafted free agent from Illinois will start against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday at MetLife Stadium.
“Last year was a great story and everything, how things turned out,” DeVito said. “All the fun and playing outside, it’s fun. That was last year. I’m still a football player now. It’s not like I was before.
“The external stuff will rest. I’ve talked to everyone around me, my inner circle. Want to stay tight and make sure everything is in terms of production on Sunday.”
DeVito was named the surprise starter after the Giants benched Daniel Jones earlier this week. Before the No. 3 quarterback, jump backup Drew Lock on the depth chart to get another chance.
DeVito-mania was about to end last year after the New Jersey native became the starter and won three consecutive games. With his Italian heritage, toe celebration and local roots, he became an instant sensation, and the legend of “Tommy Cutlets” was born.
The fans cheered the success before he returned to the bench to vote for Tyrod Taylor. DeVito had a line in the corner during his appearance, and he quickly became a favorite as he capitalized on his popularity. In fact, it’s not uncommon for fans at training camp this year to shout his name in hopes of attracting attention. The third-string quarterback is often more popular than the starter.
DeVito, 26, is patiently waiting as the No. 3 quarterback. With another year under his belt and having moved out of his parents’ house, he’s trying to put all the memes and hype behind him because he knows there’s more important business to take care of on the field.
“I feel like my mom sent me a couple here, but I really don’t like social media and the outside stuff,” DeVito said. “Trying to sharpen in football.”
DeVito had eight pass breakups and three interceptions while the Giants were 3-3 in six starts last season. They never had a chance to compete for the backup job after Lock was signed to a one-year, $5 million guaranteed contract this offseason.
This makes this week’s jump straight to DeVito unusual.
“I wouldn’t be surprised,” DeVito said. “I’m open to all success. It’s kind of something I’ve been trying to do since last year. You always stay ready. You never know.”
Coach Brian Daboll went to DeVito looking for a spark. The energy he brought to the team last season is what the Giants (2-8) are striving for.
“Still learning the ropes. … He’s got great leadership about him. I think he’s been a year into the system where he knows more,” Daboll said. “He’s done a great job since he’s been here, really since we had him last year, and we’re going to work as hard as we can to get him ready.”
DeVito took all first-team reps in Wednesday’s practice. Lock handled the scout team, and Jones didn’t see much. That seems to be the plan going forward with the $23 million injury guarantee hanging over the Giants’ head.
Jones, who was fourth in individual practice behind recently signed Tim Boyle, spent most of early practice with his arm in a hand warmer on his hip.
“It’s interesting. It’s strange because it’s never what you’ve seen,” said Lock of Jones’ minimal participation in practice. “Again, he’s tired. He’s taking it like no other person in that position.”
Lock said the situation was difficult to digest and he was disappointed and disappointed by the decision. He entered as the Giants’ No. 1 player.
“It’s disappointing that we won’t show anyone in this facility or after the meeting above,” said Lock, who met with Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen on Monday. “I made that point right there. My job is to come compete, keep playing and be a man. I said I’m going to handle this like a pro. I’m going to be a professional. That’s what I’m proud of. I’m not going to be the guy tearing up the locker room. “
