Tommy DeVito's Agent Expresses Pride in Italian Roots Following NFL Viral Moment
Rookie quarterback Tommy DeVito shines on the field, but it's his agent Sean Stellato who steals the spotlight with his Italian heritage
As rookie quarterback Tommy DeVito made a name for himself on the field, his agent Sean Stellato was getting attention off it. Stellato's stylish black pinstripe suit and matching fedora caused a stir before the New York Giants' game against the Green Bay Packers, going viral online.
The sharply dressed agent was seen standing next to his client while speaking on the phone, sparking fascination across the world: who was this man? And who was he talking to?
On December 11, 2023, in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Tommy DeVito #15 of the New York Giants is seen running onto the field before the game against the Green Bay Packers at MetLife Stadium. (Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images)
Tommy DeVito became a local legend and gained fame on the internet through his remarkable story. "We were working on finalizing a deal that was supposed to be completed earlier in the day," Stellato told CNN's Abby Phillip on Tuesday, noting that he made an irresistible offer.
"I have a ritual when I'm traveling, where I talk to my five-year-old daughter before bed, so there were actually two calls being made."
DeVito, known as "Tommy Cutlets" due to his embrace of his Italian heritage, has fully embraced his roots since gaining fame this season.
Social media is filled with comparisons between "The Sopranos" and "Goodfellas," making it fitting that his agent appeared to have just walked off the set of a Godfather movie.
During Monday's Manningcast, famed quarterback Peyton Manning remarked, "He looks like Johnny Fontane," in reference to a character from the Godfather series.
"We are incredibly proud of our Italian heritage and our roots," Stellato expressed, before delving into the inspiration for the outfit. "When you think about it, the wind was really picking up that night, and I just felt it was the ideal occasion for a fedora. Call it superstition, but the last time I wore this suit was on draft day, and the time before that, my quarterback delivered an exceptional performance that made history in the game."
"I felt like it was Monday Night Football, so you had to put on that tough look. We were facing a strong Packers team, but we had a little fun with it and I'm really proud of my client for doing what he did."
New York Giants quarterback Tommy DeVito warms up before playing against the Green Bay Packers on Monday.
Seth Wenig/AP
Stellato had every reason to feel proud as DeVito orchestrated a game-winning drive to lead the Giants to a 24-22 victory on Monday. It was undoubtedly the highlight of the undrafted rookie's inspiring journey to the top of the NFL.
Local boy DeVito still lives at home with his parents, his mom still makes his bed and he entered the league as a largely unheralded prospect.
"Hes really close with his mom," Stellato added.
"Most Italian mothers want their kids to stay in the house at least until theyre 35. Hes comfortable there. Look, he doesnt have to pay for rent. Financially, its a smart move."
Local boy makes good
Stellato's family joined him in the stadium to celebrate Monday's win, leading to another heartwarming viral moment. DeVito's father was captured kissing Stellato on the cheek in celebration of his son's success, and the agent returned the gesture.
The duo also joined in the traditional, somewhat Italian gesture of pinching their fingers together in celebration.
"I'm a reciprocator and I thought it would be only right to give him a kiss back, but he's the one who broke the ice. He planted a big smooch on me," Stellato quipped.
As Italians, we communicate with our hands, embrace, kiss, cherish our fashion and fine dining, so there was an abundance of emotion and excitement. Sharing this experience with such a wonderful family was the cherry on top, making it a truly special moment.
Stellato will have a hectic schedule in the upcoming weeks as DeVito is currently one of the most sought-after marketing prospects in US sports. Despite this, the agent emphasizes that DeVito is selective about the companies he associates himself with, and remains grounded in his roots.
"He's a local success story, playing for his hometown team and his performance is unbelievable for everyone in New Jersey, New York, and all the Giants fans," Stellato added. "He's the perfect example of an underdog."
