FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – In a stunning move, the New England Patriots announced the release of veteran long snapper Joe Cardona, the team’s longest-tenured player, on Tuesday, April 29, 2025. Cardona, a fifth-round pick in the 2015 NFL Draft from the United States Naval Academy (Navy), played 160 regular-season games and 13 playoff games for the Patriots, contributing to two Super Bowl titles in 2016 and 2018.
A Remarkable 10-Year Journey
Joe Cardona, 33, joined the Patriots as one of the rare long snappers selected in the NFL Draft, becoming the second-highest-drafted long snapper in league history, behind only Ryan Pontbriand. Over his 10-year tenure with the Patriots, Cardona stood out not only for his precise snapping but also for his durability and contributions on special teams. He recorded a tackle in each of the first four games of the previous season and notched a notable forced fumble, showcasing his exceptional coverage skills.
Off the field, Cardona was a symbol of dedication. As a lieutenant in the United States Navy Reserve, he was honored with the 2023 USAA Salute to Service Award, recognizing his outstanding efforts in supporting the military community. Cardona balanced his football career with military service, having served in South Korea and currently serving as the department head of Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron Eight in Newport, Rhode Island.
Signs of Change
The release of Cardona was foreshadowed when the Patriots selected long snapper Julian Ashby from Vanderbilt in the seventh round (pick 251) of the 2025 NFL Draft. This move is seen as part of head coach Mike Vrabel’s broader plan to rebuild the Patriots, moving on from veterans of the Bill Belichick era. Familiar names like David Andrews, Jonathan Jones, Deatrich Wise Jr., and now Cardona have departed during this offseason, signaling a complete roster overhaul.
Cardona, who was named a team captain for the first time in the 2024 season, left a legacy defined by leadership as much as performance. In the 2024 season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals, he delivered one of the most memorable moments of his career, forcing a fumble on a punt return to give the Patriots a crucial advantage. “An old dog can still learn new tricks,” Cardona quipped after the game.
Reactions and Legacy
The decision to part ways with Cardona stunned Patriots fans and the broader community. The team’s official X account posted a message of gratitude: “Thank you for your dedication and commitment, Joe.” Numerous posts on X highlighted that with Cardona’s departure, the Patriots no longer have any players on their roster who won a Super Bowl with the team. The longest-tenured players now are three 2020 draftees: Kyle Dugger, Anfernee Jennings, and Mike Onwenu.
Cardona was more than just a player; he was a symbol of resilience and loyalty. Born in El Cajon, California, he was a standout in football and lacrosse at Granite Hills High School before attending Navy. There, he never had a bad snap in four years, helping Navy achieve a 30-21 record and defeating rival Army four times.
The Road Ahead
Now a free agent, Joe Cardona has the opportunity to continue his NFL career with another team. Given his experience and reputation, he is expected to attract interest from teams in need of a reliable long snapper. Meanwhile, the Patriots are entrusting rookie Julian Ashby to take over snapping duties, marking another step in their rebuilding process.
Cardona’s departure closes a significant chapter in Patriots history and serves as a reminder that nothing in the NFL is permanent. Fans will remember him as a warrior both on and off the field, a player who brought the Navy’s ethos to every snap