New England Patriots tight end Eli Raridon possesses many desirable traits as an incoming rookie in the NFL.
Raridon’s biggest strengths are his dexterity as a pass-catcher, as well as his foot speed. The Iowa native went for 482 receiving yards on 15.1 yards per reception in 2025 at Notre Dame.
The Patriots have many mouths to feed on offense in 2026, and another may be on the way in the event that New England successfully trades for Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown.
However, Austin Hooper, the Patriots’ backup tight end from last season, departed in free agency, creating an opening for Raridon to step into behind Hunter Henry from the onset of his career. Strikingly enough, Hooper is a fitting comparison to the type of player Raridon is projected to be for New England.
Raridon has the potential to be the Patriots’ fifth-leading receiver next season. Romeo Doubs, Henry, and Mack Hollins will all have larger roles in the offense. Kayshon Boutte’s name has been in trade talks this offseason, but he will also be ahead of Raridon in the pecking order next season, in the event that he remains in New England.
DeMario Douglas is also in line for an increased role in New England’s offense in 2026. Raridon projects to go for 200 receiving yards and one touchdown as a rookie in 2026.
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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: What is Patriots rookie TE Eli Raridon’s projected production in 2026?