The Los Angeles Rams faced significant challenges with their special teams throughout the 2025 NFL season, leading to multiple losses and growing frustration. Unable to address the issues through mid-season investments, general manager Les Snead is counting on veteran long snapper Joe Cardona to stabilize this critical area in 2026.
While the Rams brought back experienced long snapper Jake McQuaide during 2025 as a temporary fix, his role was always intended to be transitional. The coaching staff appreciated his leadership and reasonable salary, but Snead aimed to strengthen the position beyond those qualities. Cardona’s proven skills and veteran presence promise to elevate the unit more effectively.
Joe Cardona Brings Experience and Versatility to Rams
Joe Cardona arrives with 11 seasons of NFL experience, known not only for accuracy in long snapping but also for his ability to manage blocking assignments on the line. His tackling skills stand out, having amassed 10 tackles over the past three seasons while playing on coverage units—far surpassing the combined two tackles made by the Rams’ previous long snappers, Alex Ward and Jake McQuaide, during that span. Such contributions add valuable depth to special teams coverage beyond snapping duties.
Reports indicate Cardona has agreed to a two-year contract worth $3.45 million, a deal that balances veteran reliability with financial prudence for the Rams.
Why Cardona Represents a Smart Investment for the Rams
Although long snappers generally command lower salaries than positions like cornerback or quarterback due to the specialized nature and limited snaps per game, their impact can be equally pivotal. The difficulties encountered by the Rams in the 2025 season highlighted how missing quality at this position can derail a team’s success.
Should Cardona perform as expected, he would deliver exceptional value, justifying his salary many times over. His proficiency promises more consistent snaps for field goals and punts, potentially reducing costly mistakes. Additionally, his tackling ability on punt coverage units offers a rare and valuable asset in a role typically limited to snapping duties.
General manager Les Snead’s approach reflects a broader strategy of incremental roster improvements, acquiring reliable players who bring measured but meaningful enhancements rather than chasing only All-Pro stars. This steady accumulation of talent has the potential to transform the team’s overall performance.
As the Rams prepare for the 2026 season, fans can look forward to seeing how the addition of Joe Cardona strengthens their special teams—a unit that proved fragile last year but may finally regain stability through this strategic signing.
#Rams are signing LS Joe Cardona, the former 2x Super Bowl champion with the #Patriots, to a 2-year guaranteed deal worth $3.45M.
pic.twitter.com/GpcRq99RPk— (31- 51)(24-12)Anthony Ramirez (@Talkin2Tony) March 10, 2026
