4 specialist fits for the Patriots in the NFL Draft

TUSCALOOSA, ALABAMA - SEPTEMBER 28: Brett Thorson #92 of the Georgia Bulldogs punts against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium on September 28, 2024 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) | Getty Images The 2026 NFL Draft is a day away as the New England Patriots continue the process of finishing their board.

Things will look quite different for the team this draft picking 31st overall after back-to-back years selecting in the top-five. After spending two draft picks on specialists last season, New England may be looking to add more competition this go-around. So, with that said, let’s take a look at some of the prospects that might make sense for the Patriots at the position.

Patriots’ current specialists situation The Patriots dipped into the draft twice last year to upgrade their specialists group. That began in the sixth-round with kicker Andy Borregales , who finished his rookie season strong making 27-of-32 attempts in the regular season. Borregales is set to enter the year as the unquestioned starter.

Seventh-round pick Julian Ashby now faces competition at long snapper, however, after the team signed Niko Lalos in free agency. Ashby, who started every game for the Patriots his rookie season, would still be considered the odds-on favorite. Any addition in the draft would likely come at the punter position, as Bryce Baringer enters the final year of his rookie contract.