A Pro Bowler and First-Team All-Pro special-teamer in 2024, New England Patriots spark plug Brenden Schooler saw the individual accolades pass him by in 2025.
Of course, winning like New England did in coach Mike Vrabel’s first year, going all the way to Super Bowl LX, eased any pain there might have been.
That doesn’t mean Schooler won’t be gunning for greatness in 2026.
“It’s always interesting when you reflect after a season to see what you think you did really well and what you think you didn’t do really well,” said Schooler, who heading into his fifth National Football League season isn’t about to rest on his past accomplishments.
“It’s always about finding that little edge. Even if you have the best season of your career.”
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Schooler worked hard through the spring, following the tradition left before him in the position by Matt Slater.
With training camp just over a week away, he understands the opener, a rematch with the Seahawks in Seattle, is just ahead.
The Seahawks traditionally excel in the kicking game, a fact that Schooler understands all too well.
Schooler is up for the challenge
“(I want to) be composed, just like I was when we played them … try to treat the game just as I did in the Super Bowl,” said Schooler, back after OTAs in May.
“For me personally, certain teams are known to be better on special teams than others … you always look forward to those games because you want to play against the best.
“You obviously tip your hat off and respect them because they’re really good at their craft. You want that kind of same respect from them as well. You’re always excited to go up against guys that are good … Who is going to have the upper hand today, who wants it more?”
The tougher the test, the better
That competitive spirit and fight, Schooler’s trademarks since joining the Patriots as an undrafted rookie free agent in 2022, have been part of Schooler’s repertoire in sports for as long as he remembers.
“Growing up, I was always super competitive. I never wanted to be going up against the least skilled guys. I want the best, biggest, fastest guy,” Schooler said. “I want to see what I’m made of. I wanted to see if I could hang with the big boys.”
