Mike Vrabel and the New England Patriots stirred up the debate while picking their first rookie of the year in the 2025 NFL Draft. They selected Will Campbell as their first-round pick at 4th overall. This sparked concerns among the Foxborough fans, who doubted the offensive tackle’s ability due to his short arm length (32 5/8 inches). Nevertheless, Drake Maye’s team was pretty confident with the LSU player, and perhaps that’s why they made another crucial turn, this time in the offensive line after the draft.

According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler on X, “The #Patriots are not picking up the fifth-year option of offensive lineman Cole Strange, per source.” Strange is 26-year-old who is under contract for the 2025 season, which will be the final year of his deal. As per this deal, he has a base salary of $2.4 million, which means an “Option would have paid around $16.7M” in 2026.

Drake Maye’s teammate has played 30 games for Mike Vrabel’s team with 29 starts. But now, the Patriots are passing on Cole Strange’s fifth-year option, and honestly, no one’s really surprised. That $16.7 million price tag just didn’t make sense. Strange hasn’t been able to stay healthy. He played only three games last season because of a knee injury.

In total, he’s made just 30 appearances since being drafted in 2022. That’s tough for a guy picked in the first round. He’s mostly played left guard, but there’s a chance he might shift to center this season under Mike Vrabel. Still, with New England stacking up new talent—like veteran Morgan Moses and No. 4 pick Will Campbell—it’s clear they’re moving in a new direction.

Until then, the Patriots have another member completely cut from the team, which has again brought Mike Vrabel’s baffling decision into the limelight.

Mike Vrabel sparked debate with the exit of a 10-year veteran!

Long snapper Joe Cardona exited after a decade of serving the Patriots, marking the end of an era. Cardona was the last remaining player from the Super Bowl-winning teams, and his departure from Mike Vrabel’s team hit hard for many fans.

Drafted in 2015, Cardona quickly became a staple of the Patriots, earning respect not just for his skills but for his dedication to both football and the Navy. But with the team drafting rookie long snapper Julian Ashby, the writing was on the wall. It’s clear that the team is looking toward the future, even if it means saying goodbye to some beloved veterans.

Cardona, who won two Super Bowls with the Patriots, was more than just a player. He embodied the Patriot Way, as Julian Edelman put it. In an emotional tribute, Edelman shared a post, honoring Cardona’s impact on and off the field. No doubt, this move is part of a bigger shift in the Patriots’ roster. They already have other veterans like David Andrews and Jonathan Jones, also moving on.

It’s bittersweet, but it’s a sign Mike Vrabel’s Patriots are making tough choices as they look ahead. But you cannot deny, Cardona’s exit leaves fans wondering—are the Patriots gearing up for another Super Bowl run? Time will tell. But the veteran’s chapter with the Pats will always be remembered!