Patriots' Punter Shuffle in 2026 Draft

0:00On April 22nd, the 2026 NFL Draft kicks off tomorrow and the New England Patriots are wrapping up their big board while sitting at 31st overall. That's a big drop from their top five picks the last two years. After grabbing Specialist's last season, they're eyeing more competition, especially at punter. Last year, they drafted kicker Andy Borragales in the 6th round and he balled out hitting 27 of 32 field goals. He's locked in as the starter. The 7th round long snapper Julian Ashby started every game but now has free agent Nico Lollos breathing down his neck. Punterbrice Baronger, though, is in his final rookie deal year with some ups and downs that scream for challengers. Fans and analysts are buzzing because special teams can swing games and the past no consistency wins in the trenches. Barongers flashes of brilliance having erased those shaky moments so adding depth here could stabilize the unit without burning high picks. Top punterfits include George's Bret Thorson, last year's Ray Guy winner with killer inside.

1:03Michigan states Ryan Eckley boosted his hang time this year, Syracuse's Jack Stonehouse ranks high in yards per punt and Florida's Tommy Domen leads. In hang time, keep an eye on guys like Iowa State's Tyler Perkins too. As the pats dive into round one, watch how they handle the specialist shuffle. It could be the quiet move that amps up their whole squad for a stepstay turnaround season. NFL News Today, powered by AI bringing you what matters on game day.