Patriots Rookie TE Eli Raridon Earns Praise Early in First Training Camp

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As the Patriots evaluate their roster early in training camp, rookie tight end Eli Raridon has emerged as one of the players who has stood out.

New England selected Raridon in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft, hoping to add depth to a thin tight end room. In his first few months with the Patriots, Raridon has impressed with his ability to impact the game both as a receiver and blocker.

"New offense, new scheme, new NFL. Capable, willing learner," head coach Mike Vrabel said of Raridon. "We'll see when pads come on, things change. I think he's tried to play with the speed that we feel like he had, but maybe hasn't always shown."

Raridon will continue to get opportunities to work with the first- and second-team units, but his teammates have already noticed his talent level. Here's what Patriots players have said about Raridon.

Patriots players praise Eli Raridon

So far, many Patriots have praised Raridon's performance in training camp as he acclimates to the NFL, a good sign for the team. Of most importance, Drake Maye seemingly is already developing chemistry with the rookie.

"He understands how to play both positions at the tight end spot, and I think he's making plays on the football," Maye said, via the Boston Herald. "That's what you want to see from a young guy, and he's putting the work in. That's the biggest thing with a young rookie. You want to see him go out there and take a rep when he's tired, and not kind of call for himself. And he's doing all the things the right way, and I'm looking forward to seeing what he does throughout camp. And he's been a great player for us and a great dude."

Raridon is sharing the tight end room with veteran Hunter Henry, giving the rookie a valuable mentor to lean on throughout his first NFL season. Henry has already noticed Raridon's growth and believes the young tight end continues to improve each day.

"Eli's doing a great job, man. He's taking the classroom to the field, learning a lot of things," Henry said. "You can see the game slowing down for him a little bit ... he's got a bright future ahead of him for sure."

Patriots TE depth chart

RankPlayer1.Hunter Henry2.Eli Raridon3.CJ Dippre4.Tanner Arkin

Raridon has a clear path to the No. 2 tight end spot on the Patriots depth chart, slotting in right behind Hunter Henry. With Henry entering the final year of his contract, Raridon could also be in line to take over as the starter next year if he has a good rookie season.

Eli Raridon college stats

  • Games: 40
  • Receptions: 48
  • Receiving yards: 623
  • Touchdowns: 3

Raridon spent four seasons at Notre Dame and played a significant role during his final two years with the program. The 2025 season was his best as a receiver, as he recorded 482 receiving yards, but Raridon also proved he could make an impact as both a blocker and a pass-catcher throughout his college career.

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