Career Timeline of Joe Cardona: Major Achievements and Milestones

From career breakthroughs to professional milestones, explore how Joe Cardona made an impact.

Joseph "Joe" Cardona is an American football long snapper. He played college football at Navy and is an officer in the U.S. Naval Reserve, holding the rank of Lieutenant. Cardona is a free agent.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

May 2, 2015: Drafted by New England Patriots

On May 2, 2015, Joe Cardona was drafted by the New England Patriots in the fifth round (166th overall) of the 2015 NFL draft, making him the fourth pure long snapper to be drafted in NFL history.

June 4, 2015: Signed Rookie Contract

On June 4, 2015, Joe Cardona officially signed his rookie contract with the New England Patriots. The structure of his contract reflected the uncertainty of his availability in future seasons due to his Naval assignment.

May 13, 2016: Approval to Play in NFL

On May 13, 2016, Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus approved Joe Cardona's request to play in the NFL for the 2016 season.

February 5, 2017: Super Bowl LI Victory

On February 5, 2017, Joe Cardona played in Super Bowl LI, where the Patriots defeated the Atlanta Falcons 34–28 in overtime. Cardona was active in seven special teams plays during the game.

February 4, 2018: Super Bowl LII Appearance

On February 4, 2018, Joe Cardona played in Super Bowl LII, where the Patriots lost to the Philadelphia Eagles 41–33. The Patriots failed to repeat as Super Bowl champions.

June 14, 2018: Contract Extension with Patriots

On June 14, 2018, Joe Cardona signed a four-year contract extension with the New England Patriots.

June 7, 2019: Promotion to Lieutenant

On June 7, 2019, Joe Cardona was promoted to the rank of lieutenant in a ceremony at Gillette Stadium.

December 20, 2022: Season-Ending Injury

On December 20, 2022, it was announced that Joe Cardona would miss the remainder of the season due to a torn tendon in his foot, ending his streak of 140 consecutive games played since 2015.

March 21, 2023: Re-Signing with Patriots

On March 21, 2023, Joe Cardona re-signed with the Patriots on another four-year contract extension worth $6.3 million, making him the highest-paid long snapper.

September 2, 2024: Team Captain Announcement

On September 2, 2024, Joe Cardona was announced as a team captain for the Patriots' 2024 season for the first time in his career. He also forced a fumble in the Week 1 win against the Cincinnati Bengals.