Pats players reflect on season, look to next year after AFC title loss

January 25, 2016 4:36 pm

By Alana Cerrone

acerrone@abc6.com

Patriots players spent much of Monday back at Gillette for what a lot of people were calling, "trash bag day," as players cleaned out their lockers to wrap up the season–not ending the way they’d hoped.

For Pats fans it was a somber Monday, but even after Sunday’s devastating AFC Championship loss, they are still proud.

Inside the locker room, most players were proud too, reflecting on the season.

"We’re reflecting on this past year. A lot to be proud of. Came to an end earlier than we wanted it to," said Patriots Long Snapper Joe Cardona.

Others are only looking forward.

"On to next year…on to next year…on to next year," said Bryan Stork.

Cardona is going back to his other job as an active member of the United States Navy after finishing up his first season as a New England Patriot.

"Seeing these guys compete day-in day-out… that really stood out to me," said Cardona.

After the game, kicker Stephen Gostkowski put the blame on himself – but his teammates stood by him, saying it didn’t come down to one play.

"[He’s] the best in the world at what he does. The way he came out and owned it is really inspiring to me. He’s a true example of leadership and something I’ll never forget," said Cardona.

"We didn’t play well enough to win. Simple as that," said Matthew Slater, the Special Teams Captain.