Home / Sports / Patriots' Special Teams: A Draft Preview
Patriots' Special Teams: A Draft Preview
10 Apr
Summary
- Kicker Andy Borregales finished 2025 with 31 field goals and 60 extra points.
- Punter Bryce Baringer faces job jeopardy entering his contract year in 2026.
- Long snapper competition brewing with Niko Lalos challenging Julian Ashby.
New England Patriots special teams have seen a resurgence under coordinator Jeremy Springer since his 2024 hiring. The unit has excelled in various aspects, from punt and kick returns to kicking records. As the Patriots prepare for the spring draft, attention turns to kickers, punters, and long snappers.
Kicker Andy Borregales, despite a slow start in his 2025 rookie season, finished strong with 31 made field goals and 60 extra points, securing his future with a 59-yard field goal record at Gillette Stadium. However, punter Bryce Baringer, entering his contract year for 2026, faces job uncertainty after a difficult past season.
The long snapper position is also seeing increased competition, with the team signing free agent Niko Lalos to challenge the incumbent Julian Ashby. Top draft prospects include kickers Trey Smack, Dominic Zvada, and Drew Stevens; punters Brett Thorson and Jack Stonehouse; and long snappers Harrin Grimes, Beau Gardner, and Tyler Duzansky. The Patriots' draft strategy may lean towards a punter like Stonehouse due to his talent and prior connections.
