Patriots Reportedly Agree To Four-Year Extension With Long Snapper Joe Cardona

By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com

On the same day the New England Patriots gave a two-year extension to fullback James Develin, they've reportedly wrapped up the offseason with an extension for long snapper Joe Cardona.

As reported by ESPN's Mike Reiss on Thursday, the Patriots and Cardona have agreed to a four-year extension that could keep the long snapper in New England through the 2022 season. The Pats originally drafted Cardona, 26, out of Navy with the 166th overall pick int he fifth round of the 2015 draft.

Cardona has played long snapper in all 16 games for the Patriots in his three NFL seasons, plus eight playoff games. Unfortunately, at this point in Cardona's career, fans may best know the long snapper for a botched snap early in the second quarter of Super Bowl LII that helped cost the Patriots three points.

But Cardona has always been highly touted for his very specific skill set, and has mostly been consistent and reliable in the position. Also, Bill Belichick is paying him for future performance and not what he's done in the past. Long snapper may not exactly be the most important position on the field, but perhaps he becomes the GOAT at the position in the coming years.

Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at matthew.dolloff@bbgi.com.