With the clock ticking down on Pro Bowl fan voting, the New England Patriots are making a strong late-season push-not just in the standings, but in the ballots too. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye has been leading the charge, holding the top spot in total fan votes as of Monday afternoon. But he’s not the only Patriot getting love from fans across the league.
Julian Ashby, New England’s seventh-round pick from the 2025 NFL Draft, is currently sitting atop the AFC long snapper rankings. That’s right-Ashby, just 23 years old, has quietly become a fan favorite at one of the league’s most underappreciated positions. He’s played in all 14 games so far this season, logging 115 special teams snaps, and his consistency hasn’t gone unnoticed.
And the Patriots’ presence doesn’t stop there. A handful of other players are making waves in their respective positional groups, reminding everyone that while New England may be rebuilding, their roster is filled with emerging talent and steady contributors.
Here’s a breakdown of where several Patriots stand in the AFC fan vote:
- Garrett Bradbury is 4th among AFC centers. The veteran has been a stabilizing force in the middle of the offensive line, helping anchor a unit that’s been tasked with protecting a rookie quarterback and establishing a ground game that’s shown flashes of promise.
- Jaylinn Hawkins, who joined New England midseason, has climbed to 3rd among AFC free safeties.
His range and ball skills have made a difference in the back end of the Patriots' defense, especially in critical third-down situations.
- Marcus Jones is 2nd among AFC cornerbacks. Known for his versatility and explosive athleticism, Jones has made plays in coverage and contributed as a return man, showing why he's one of the more dynamic young defenders in the league.
- Harold Landry, a key figure in the Patriots’ pass rush, is 4th among AFC outside linebackers. He’s brought consistent pressure off the edge and has been a tone-setter for a defense that’s leaned on its front seven all season.
- Brenden Schooler, a special teams ace, is 2nd among AFC special teamers. His energy and effort on coverage units have been textbook examples of how to make an impact without playing every down on offense or defense.
- Andres Borregales, the Patriots’ kicker, is 5th among AFC kickers. He’s been reliable when called upon, and in a season where points have been at a premium, his leg has been a steady asset.
- Hunter Henry, the veteran tight end, is 4th among AFC tight ends. He’s remained a trusted target in the red zone and a safety valve for Maye as the rookie continues to grow into the role.
With fan voting set to close at midnight, the Patriots are making a strong final impression. Whether it’s rookies like Maye and Ashby or seasoned pros like Henry and Bradbury, New England’s roster is showing up across the board. And while the Pro Bowl may be an exhibition, the recognition speaks volumes about the respect these players are earning-not just from coaches and peers, but from fans around the league.
For a team in transition, that kind of league-wide acknowledgment is more than just a pat on the back. It’s a sign that the foundation being laid in Foxborough has some serious potential.