The New England Patriots surprised many by selecting long snapper Julian Ashby from Vanderbilt in the seventh round of the 2025 NFL draft. This move illustrated their intent to secure a player they perceived as a valuable asset, especially with multiple teams reportedly interested in Ashby. The Patriots, having amassed numerous draft picks, opted to invest in Ashby rather than risk losing him as an undrafted free agent.

Ashby had workouts with nine teams before the draft, with Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel and special teams coordinator Jeremy Springer present at one of these sessions. The decision to draft Ashby also suggests the Patriots are looking to move on from veteran long snapper Joe Cardona, whose ten-year tenure with the team is coming to an end. While saying goodbye to a long-time player is difficult, the Patriots see promise in Ashby’s future.