FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — The New England Patriots have parted ways with veteran long snapper Joe Cardona, marking the end of an era for the team’s longest-tenured player. Released on Tuesday, Cardona had been a steady presence on the Patriots’ roster since being selected in the fifth round of the 2015 NFL Draft.
During his tenure with New England, Cardona contributed to two Super Bowl victories and participated in 160 regular-season games, along with 13 playoff matches. Not only known for his snapping skills, Cardona made his mark on the field through his defensive contributions, tallying a tackle in each of the first four games last season and forcing a fumble. His coverage abilities were crucial to the team’s special teams unit.
Throughout his career, Cardona balanced his NFL commitments with his military service as a lieutenant in the Navy. In recognition of his dedication to both his athletic and military careers, he earned the USAA 2023 Salute to Service Award, an honor acknowledging outstanding efforts by NFL players to support the military community.
The decision to release Cardona aligns with a broader roster strategy under new head coach Mike Vrabel, who has signaled a shift by moving on from other veteran players, including longtime center David Andrews. The Patriots have also drafted Vanderbilt long snapper Julian Ashby in the seventh round, hinting at a significant transition in the team’s special teams lineup.
As the Patriots aim to revitalize their squad this offseason, Cardona’s departure illustrates the changing dynamics within the team. While his contributions over the years have earned him a place in Patriots history, the team appears to be focusing on fostering new talent and reshaping its identity.
With Cardona’s exit, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how this decision impacts the team’s performance in the upcoming season, as well as how new additions integrate into the Patriots’ strategy. This move not only reflects a pivot in player personnel but also underscores the challenges of balancing veteran experience with fresh prospects in a competitive league.
As Cardona embarks on the next chapter of his career, he leaves behind a legacy of resilience and excellence in both football and service, exemplifying the commitment and teamwork that have defined the Patriots over the years.