The New England Patriots have made a move that many saw coming. According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the Patriots are releasing quarterback Josh Dobbs after being unable to secure a trade for the veteran, who was in the final year of his $8 million contract.
Rapoport reported, "The Patriots are planning to release backup QB Josh Dobbs, sources say, after being unable to find a trade partner. Dobbs is now slated to be free."
This decision was anticipated for some time, with the signs pointing towards Dobbs either being traded or released.
Why the Patriots are Letting Go of Josh Dobbs
Rapoport further explained that the Patriots had re-signed backup quarterback Tommy DeVito earlier this offseason, offering him a two-year, $4.4 million deal. This move essentially set the stage for Dobbs' departure.
"Earlier this offseason, the Patriots re-signed QB Tommy DeVito to a 2-year, $4.4M contract, with 2026 guaranteed. That led to trade conversations with Josh Dobbs and now his likely release," Rapoport noted.
For the Patriots, keeping a third quarterback on the active roster didn't make much sense, especially since releasing Dobbs frees up $3.7 million in cap space.
Evaluating Josh Dobbs
Dobbs has proven himself as a reliable backup who can keep a team steady in the short term. However, like many backups, extended play can reveal limitations.
Over six NFL seasons, Dobbs has played in 27 games, starting 15, with a completion rate of 62.8% and a passer rating of 78.3. He has thrown for 3,346 yards, 17 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions.
At 31, Dobbs is not only known for his skills on the field but also for his intelligence-he's aspiring to become a rocket scientist-and his positive influence in the locker room. These traits make him a valuable mentor for young quarterbacks and teams needing a strong locker room presence.
Potential Landing Spots: Raiders, Packers, Dolphins, Jets
The Las Vegas Raiders might be interested, especially as they are expected to draft Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 pick and could use veteran competition for backup Aidan O'Connell.
The Green Bay Packers, having lost Malik Willis in free agency, might find Dobbs a more reliable option than Desmond Ridder and Kyle McCord.
With Willis now with the Miami Dolphins, who currently only have second-year quarterback Quinn Ewers as backup, bringing in veteran competition seems wise.
The New York Jets, despite having an experienced starter in Geno Smith, are rumored to be seeking another veteran presence. Their current backups are Bailey Zappe and Brady Cook.
Dobbs would fit well with any of these teams, so don't be surprised if he ends up with the Jets, Raiders, Packers, or Dolphins.