Dobbs Unloads on ‘Frustrating’ Patriots Exit After Landing Lions Deal
Josh Dobbs’ Journey: From Patriots Frustration to a Fresh Start with the Lions
ELI5 Summary: Imagine you’re waiting in line for a game, but the person holding your spot won’t let you go—even though they don’t need you anymore. By the time they finally release you, all the good spots are taken. That’s basically what happened to quarterback Josh Dobbs with the New England Patriots. Luckily, the Detroit Lions had an opening just in time!
The Frustration in New England
Josh Dobbs, a backup quarterback, recently shared his honest feelings about how the New England Patriots handled his departure this offseason. Here’s the simple version of what went down:
- The Timing Was Terrible: The Patriots waited two whole weeks after free agency started before cutting Dobbs.
- Why That Hurt: By the time he became a free agent, most other teams had already filled their backup quarterback spots.
- Dobbs’ Words: "That was very frustrating, the way they handled that."
Important Point: In the NFL, free agency is like a big signing window where players without contracts can join new teams. If you’re released late, the best jobs are already taken!
Dobbs’ Time with the Patriots: A Quick Recap
Let’s break down what happened during his short stint in New England:
- Role: Backup to rookie quarterback Drake Maye.
- Playing Time: Only 4 games—all in "mop-up duty" (when the game is already decided).
- Stats: 7-of-10 passing for 65 yards, no touchdowns, no interceptions.
- Notable Moment: The article notes he backed up Maye during a 29-13 loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX (Note: Super Bowl LX is scheduled for February 2026).
- The End: Patriots chose Tommy DeVito and rookie Behren Morton (7th-round pick) as their backups for 2026 instead.
A Veteran Quarterback’s Resume
Don’t let the "backup" label fool you—Dobbs has real NFL experience.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 31 years old |
| Drafted | 4th Round, 2017 by Pittsburgh Steelers |
| Seasons with Game Action | 6 |
| Total Games Played | 27 |
| Games Started | 15 |
| Record as Starter | 3-12 |
| Passing Stats | 62.8% completion, 3,346 yards, 17 TDs, 15 INTs |
| Rushing Stats | 515 yards, 8 TDs |
His Best Season: 2023
Split between the Arizona Cardinals and Minnesota Vikings:
- Starts: 12 games (3-9 record)
- Passing: 2,464 yards, 13 TDs, 10 INTs
- Showed he can play meaningful football when needed.
The Free Agency Timing Problem
Here’s why the Patriots’ delay was such a big deal:
- Normal Timeline: Free agency starts → Teams sign QBs quickly → Spots fill up fast.
- Dobbs’ Reality: Stuck on Patriots roster → Released late → Market dried up.
- Result: A solid backup QB (27 games, 15 starts) had very few options.
Think of it like musical chairs: The music stopped (free agency started), but the Patriots wouldn’t let Dobbs grab a chair. When they finally did, only broken chairs were left.
A Fresh Start in Detroit
Just when things looked tough, opportunity knocked:
- Teddy Bridgewater (Lions’ backup) announced his retirement on Instagram.
- Lions acted fast: Signed Dobbs to a 1-year, $1.425 million contract.
- Competition: Only undrafted rookie Luke Altmyer for the backup job.
- The Starter: Jared Goff hasn’t missed a game since 2021—but injuries happen.
Why This Is a Great Fit for Dobbs:
- Clear path to backup role
- Stable offense with Goff entrenched
- Coach Dan Campbell values toughness & experience
- Low pressure—just be ready if needed
What This Means for the Lions
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Insurance Policy | Reliable vet behind durable starter |
| Mentorship | Dobbs can help young QBs (like Altmyer) |
| System Fit | Experienced in multiple offenses |
| Cost | Very affordable ($1.425M) |
Bottom Line: Detroit got a quality backup at a bargain price because New England mismanaged the timeline. Sometimes, one team’s frustration becomes another’s fortune!
Summary
- Josh Dobbs was frustrated by the Patriots’ late release, which hurt his free agency options.
- He has real NFL experience (27 games, 15 starts, solid 2023 season).
- Bad timing left him without a team—until Teddy Bridgewater retired.
- The Lions signed him quickly to a cheap 1-year deal.
- He’s now the clear backup to Jared Goff with minimal competition.
- Win-win: Dobbs gets a great spot; Lions get a proven insurance policy.
FAQ
Why was Dobbs so upset about the timing of his release?
Because NFL free agency moves fast. Teams fill quarterback spots in the first few days. By waiting two weeks, the Patriots made sure most teams had already signed their backups—leaving Dobbs with almost no market.
Is Josh Dobbs a good quarterback?
He’s a solid backup—not a star, but experienced and competent. He’s started 15 NFL games, had a 2,400+ yard season in 2023, and can run the ball well (8 career rushing TDs). Perfect for a "break glass in case of emergency" role.
Who is Luke Altmyer?
An undrafted rookie quarterback from the University of Illinois. He’s Dobbs’ only competition for the backup job—but Dobbs’ experience makes him the overwhelming favorite.
Why did the Patriots keep Dobbs so long if they didn’t want him?
The article suggests they hoped to trade him for a draft pick or player. When no trade happened, they finally released him—but the damage to his market was done.
Will Dobbs play much for the Lions?
Probably not. Jared Goff hasn’t missed a game since 2021. But in the NFL, one hit changes everything. Having a calm, experienced backup like Dobbs is exactly what a contending team needs.
Article based on reports from NBC Sports ProFootballTalk, Spotrac, and Instagram announcements.