Could the Patriots be Losing Their Long Snapper to the Navy?

Multiple Reports Say Maybe

For athletes drafted into professional sports coming out of the armed forces, there is always a possibility that a player may have to return to their duties of service.

NBC Sports reports that such may be the case for Patriots long-snapper Joe Cardona.

Last season, the Pats welcomed rookie long snapper Joe Cardona from the Navy.  This year, it looks like Cardona may have to fulfill duties and board a ship that has called him up to serve.

Ray Mabus, the Secretary of the Navy, was quoted on the Dan Patrick Show comparing the situation to Baltimore Wide Receiver Keenan Reynolds, saying the situation is different for Cardona.........

“We’ve got [Joe Cardona] long snapper for the Patriots. He played last year for the Patriots while he was on active duty because he was able to work them both out. He’s been assigned to a ship and he’s going to report to that ship. So he may have to leave the Patriots for the year to go fulfill that role.”

A few weeks ago, the Pats signed former Browns long snapper Christian Yount which indicates that they may be anticipating Cardona's departure.