“When I put on the uniform, it doesn’t matter that I’ve played nine years in the NFL. It doesn’t matter that I’m a two-time Super Bowl champion. It doesn’t matter any of those accolades — all that matters is that I’m there for them and doing my job and performing.” That’s what Joe Cardona told WBZ-TV’s Steve Burton in an interview for Patriots GameDay in December 2023. Cardona served both the NFL and the Navy with unwavering dedication, embodying the spirit of selflessness and honor. But even the most remarkable journeys eventually reach their final chapter — and this one, too, must come to an end.

When the Patriots drafted Julian Ashby with their 251st pick in the draft, many people thought this was coming. Lieutenant in the Navy Reserve, drafted by the Patriots in 2015, Cordona played long snapper for 10 seasons with the Patriots. He even won two Super Bowls back in 2016 and 2018 with the team. He was notably the longest active player for the Patriots.

With Joe Cordona gone, it will be up to Ashby now to take his place. The team shared the news on its official X account, “Thank you for your commitment and dedication, Joe,” with a salute emoji. And the community has lined up to offer their tributes to this legendary veteran, including the Patriots’ former WR, Julian Edelman.

Julian Edelman took to Instagram to share a story from a post by the Patriots with a tribute to Joe Cardona. The story features a poster of Cardona, with the words “Thank you, Joe Cardona” in the back. Julian added the caption, “🫡 Lt. Cardona🫡”, a salute to the legend. Notably, Julian also shared a similar post on X. The caption, “Joe Embodied the Patriot way. He was a great teammate on the field, but even an even better guy off the field. Looking forward to what the next chapter holds for ya, Lieutenant Cardona🫡.” A two-fold tribute for a two-time Super Bowl Champ. Fitting, right?

With Edelman’s tribute and Cardona’s departure, there’s a noticeable shift in the way the Patriots are moving ever since this offseason. They let go of David Andrews (center) and Ja’Whaun Bentley. They also didn’t consider re-signing QB Jacoby Brissett (QB), Jonathan Jones (CB), and DE Deatrich Wise (DE). And now Joe Cardona adds to that list of ex-Patriots. One has to wonder if they are going all-in for a Super Bowl win this year.

A new age for the Patriots?

After a dismal 4-13 2024 season, the Patriots moved Jerod Mayo to HC to turn things around. And to say he has history with the team would be an understatement. He was a former linebacker for the Patriots for eight years. Then served as their inside linebackers coach for five years. And now, he’s the head coach. Yeah — that’s history and commitment, all right.

The Patriots have also made several notable additions to their roster this offseason. Stefon Diggs, Garrett Bradbury, Milton Williams, and Morgan Moses all significantly strengthen quarterback Drake Maye’s arsenal.

The Patriots took a similar all-in approach in this year’s draft. With nine picks and two trades, they loaded up: Will Campbell (OT), TreVeyon Henderson (RB), Kyle Williams (WR), Craig Woodson (S), Joshua Farmer (DT), Bradyn Swinson (EDGE), Andres Borregales (K), Marcus Bryant (OT), Kobee Minor (CB), and, of course, Joe Cardona’s replacement — Julian Ashby. These 11 rookies will add depth and strength to the 2025 roster, potentially boosting the team’s Super Bowl hopes.

With so many roster changes, the Patriots are clearly making bold moves, gearing up for what could be their most impactful season since their last championship. How it all plays out — we’ll just have to watch and see.