Julian Ashby enters a high-stakes Patriots camp in a rare position battle after being drafted in the seventh round and replacing Joe Cardona. The long snapper’s job is under constant scrutiny—one miscue can cost a roster spot, and Ashby has already shown progress with a preseason tackle and solid camp reps, though no snap is perfect. The role has evolved: athletes must snap cleanly, block, and cover, all while fighting for job security in a league where longevity comes from consistency and rebound ability.

Historically, long snappers have been scarce in the draft and even rarer in sustaining long NFL careers. The article traces the path from Mannelly’s 16-year run to today’s market, where veterans earn minimums or multi-year deals and a standout snapper can become a cornerstone. Ashby’s early signs in New England—private workouts, team praise, and a positive preseason footprint—place him on a delicate, demanding, and potentially rewarding path.

Ultimately, the story underscores how fragile the role is yet how rewarding it can be when a rookie carves out security. The Patriots’ move to slate Ashby as Cardona’s successor highlights the blend of precision, athleticism, and mental resilience that defines modern long snapping, with the best performers commanding steady contracts after proving they can rebound from the inevitable hiccups.

Three notable free agents from the New England Patriots remain unsigned, including the recently retired David Andrews. The team's offseason overhaul under head coach Mike Vrabel, aimed at shedding the remnants of the Super Bowl era, has led to the departure of key players like Jonathan Jones, Deatrich Wise, and Joe Cardona.

With Andrews now retired, Wise, Cardona, and Jones are looking for new opportunities. The Patriots' strategic pivot under Vrabel signals a significant shift in the organization's approach, prompting speculation about how these changes will affect the team's performance in the upcoming season.

The Miami Dolphins have added Alabama long snapper Kneeland Hibbett as one of their 16 rookie free agents following the 2025 NFL Draft. This signing comes on the heels of the Dolphins releasing veteran long snapper Blake Ferguson, creating an opportunity for Hibbett, who has a strong chance to make the final roster.

Hibbett was a standout during his senior year at Alabama, starting all games and becoming a semifinalist for the prestigious Mannelly Award for the nation’s top long snapper. His journey from walk-on to scholarship player under Nick Saban underscores his determination and skill, having not recorded a single bad snap in his final season.

With rookie minicamp underway, Hibbett is the only long snapper participating, setting the stage for a competitive battle against newly signed Joe Cardona during training camp for the long snapper position.

Joe Cardona, the former long snapper for the New England Patriots, has found a new home with the Miami Dolphins after being cut by the Patriots. With ten seasons of experience and two Super Bowl championships, Cardona brings reliability and significant game-day experience to the Dolphins. His departure from New England aligns with the team's transition under new coach Mike Vrabel, who is focused on building a younger roster, highlighted by the recent draft of rookie long snapper Julian Ashby.

As the NFL offseason progresses, Cardona's fresh start with the Dolphins could revitalize his career, especially given his belief that he still has more to give at age 33. The move has raised eyebrows among Patriots fans, many of whom were disappointed by the team's decision to release such a seasoned player. With Cardona now in the AFC East, the rivalry between the Dolphins and Patriots may take on a new dimension in the upcoming season.