Longtime NFL long snapper Joe Cardona continues his professional career in his twelfth season, bringing a decade of New England Patriots experience and a Super Bowl pedigree to the Los Angeles Rams. Cardona signed a two-year contract with the Rams in March 2026 after spending the 2025 season playing all 17 games for the Miami Dolphins.
The Evolution of the Long Snapper Position
The specialized role requires absolute precision on punts, field goals, and extra points, where a single miscue can alter the outcome of a game. Former New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick detailed the intricacies of the position during a nine-minute explanation addressing why teams dedicate a specific roster spot to the role rather than converting a utility player. Cardona, a graduate of Granite Hills High School and the United States Naval Academy, was selected by the Patriots in the fifth round of the 2015 NFL Draft, becoming just the fourth pure long snapper drafted in a draft.
“I give credit to Bill for great parts of my growth and development,” Cardona stated regarding his early career under the coach. During his ten seasons in New England, Cardona helped capture victories in Super Bowls LI and LIII before his release led to his subsequent stops in Miami and Los Angeles.
San Diego Roots and Preparation
Growing up in El Cajon, Cardona played youth football at Wells Park and competed on both sides of the ball at Granite Hills High School. Drew Ferris, a former University of Florida long snapper who competed against Cardona during their youth in San Diego, noted that maintaining an exceptionally high baseline separates career professionals from short-term players. According to Cardona, the demanding discipline instilled during his time at the Naval Academy remains the foundational formula for his athletic longevity in the professional league.
“From the standpoint of longevity, something that really has benefited me, and that I attribute to my time in the Naval Academy, is maintaining always the focus on the preparation,” Cardona explained.
Rams Debut and Season Outlook
Cardona officially took the field for his twelfth NFL season opener when the Rams faced the San Francisco 49ers on September 10. Operating cleanly through three punts and a point extra during the contest, the veteran specialist executed his assignment without drawing notice—fulfilling the defining paradox of his position, where invisibility equates to perfection.
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