Robert Kraft teases ‘special announcement’ while honoring Jakob Johnson
According to team owner Robert Kraft, the Patriots will be announcing “something very special” on Wednesday. What could it be? The only hint so far is it has something to do with fullback Jakob Johnson.
Kraft made a surprise appearing on Tuesday, joining Johnson for his scheduled media availability. Accompanied by a camera crew, Kraft awarded the German fullback a game ball for becoming just the third player from the International Pathway Program to play 1,000 snaps in the NFL. Johnson, who is in his third NFL season, reached that milestone last week against the Bills.
Since making the team as a member of the practice squad in 2019 Johnson has played in 33 games with the Patriots, taking over the starting fullback job following James Develin’s departure, and playing a considerable role on special teams. Last season, he became the first member of the International Pathway Program to score a regular season NFL touchdown, catching a pass from Cam Newton in the end zone in Week 2 against the Seahawks. In total, he’s caught 12 passes for 74 yards and the score, while mainly contributing as a run blocker.
“He came with an exempt roster spot, and I don’t think anybody would believe he’s come to the point he’s tome to today, where – I think he’s one of the best fullbacks in the whole NFL.” Kraft said, before presenting Johnson with the ball.
Here’s Robert Kraft talking about Jakob Johnson and the International Pathway Program pic.twitter.com/pLvyO9rh7f
— Alex Barth (@RealAlexBarth) December 14, 2021
Kraft then turned to give Johnson the ball, while mentioning in the same breath that tomorrow is Johnson’s birthday (He’s turning 27). Seemingly, the announcement has some sort of tie to Johnson.
Given Kraft also spoke about the Patriots history of international players and playing in Europe, it would make sense that the pending announcement has something to do with football overseas. “For years, the NFL has been trying to expand to international markets, and we try to recruit international talent,” Kraft noted. “I love this program, especially over in Europe because since we’ve gone outside the U.S., we’re 3-0. So, I want to keep that happening.”
“In our history, dating back to the 70s we’ve had John Smith at kicker, then of course Sebastian Vollmer joined us and spent eight years, and now Jakob Johnson,” Kraft added.
Speaking specifically about Germany, Kraft said, “that’s one of the countries the NFL is trying to get to. I believe we have the largest fanbase here, and I think it’s because of Sebastian and [Johnson].”
As Kraft mentioned, Germany is in fact a target for the NFL. It’s been rumored that if and when that game happens, it would likely involved the Patriots due to their ties to the country. Is tomorrow the moment when that rumor becomes reality?
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Alex Barth is a writer and 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. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at [email protected].