Tommy DeVito Leads Patriots Past Eagles as Backup QB Battles Heat Up.

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — The New England Patriots rallied past the Philadelphia Eagles 24-21 on Saturday night, with Tommy DeVito delivering a strong performance while Philadelphia’s backup quarterback competition also took another step forward. The game, however, began with a concerning injury as Eagles running back Ja’Quinden Jackson was taken from the field in an ambulance following an opening-kickoff tackle. Philadelphia later announced that Jackson had strength and movement in his extremities and was transported to a hospital for further evaluation. Third-string quarterback Tanner McKee said players were told Jackson was OK. With Drake Maye and Jalen Hurts both sitting out after participating in two days of joint practices earlier in the week, DeVito and McKee received extended opportunities to make their cases. DeVito started for the Patriots and played the first half, completing 8 of 15 passes for 151 yards. He also added 44 rushing yards and helped New England establish an early offensive rhythm. His biggest play came on a 69-yard touchdown connection with Kyle Williams, giving the Patriots a major boost during the game. DeVito also broke loose for a 36-yard scramble in the second quarter that moved New England into Philadelphia territory. The drive ended with Andy Borregales connecting on a 41-yard field goal. The Patriots eventually turned to rookie quarterback Behren Morton, who delivered the winning response late in the game. After McKee put Philadelphia ahead with a 20-yard touchdown pass to Carson Steele with 3:39 remaining, Morton guided New England on a 73-yard scoring drive. Morton finished the drive by finding Nick DeGennaro for a 37-yard touchdown, putting the Patriots back in front. McKee continued to strengthen his case for Philadelphia’s backup quarterback job. He threw two touchdown passes, including a 14-yard score to Britain Covey before connecting with Steele for the late go-ahead touchdown.

Steele also provided one of the game's most memorable plays when he turned a short reception into a 14-yard gain by hurdling Patriots defensive back Brandon Crossley.

Veteran Andy Dalton, who joined the Eagles after being acquired from Carolina in March, remains part of the competition to back up Hurts. Dalton said he is approaching the final preseason game without assuming anything is guaranteed. “I don’t know. Have to see how it all goes,” Dalton said. “Every day is a new day, and so we’ll see how it all ends up.” New England was without star cornerback Christian Gonzalez, who continues to recover from a minor injury while contract negotiations remain ongoing. The Patriots also dealt with several injuries during the game. Offensive lineman Marcus Bryant left with an ankle injury on the fifth snap and did not return. Khalil Jacobs briefly visited the medical tent after a tackle but returned to the sideline, while Chad Muma limped off late in the fourth quarter. Rookie edge rusher Gabe Jacas also continued to experience some early-season growing pains. He was flagged for roughing the passer after hitting Dalton, wiping out an interception by Kindle Vildor. Jacas missed rookie minicamp and mandatory minicamp after undergoing surgery on his left knee during the offseason. Morton also saw unusual action on special teams, punting three times after Bryce Barringer handled New England’s first two punts. His three punts averaged 44.3 yards, including one touchback. The Patriots will close the preseason Thursday at Cleveland, while the Eagles will host Cincinnati on Friday.