What is Patriots rookie TE Eli Raridon's projected production in 2026?

Yahoo Sports16h ago2 min readOriginal source →

TL;DR

Patriots rookie tight end Eli Raridon is expected to leverage his skills as a pass-catcher and his foot speed in the 2026 NFL season. With the departure of backup tight end Austin Hooper, Raridon has an opportunity to contribute alongside Hunter Henry.

Key points

Eli Raridon is a rookie tight end for the Patriots.
He had 482 receiving yards at Notre Dame in 2025.
Austin Hooper's departure creates an opportunity for Raridon.

Mentioned in this story

IowaNotre Dame

A.J. BrownNew England PatriotsEli RaridonAustin Hooper

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.

Q&A

What are Eli Raridon's strengths as a tight end for the Patriots?

Eli Raridon's strengths include his dexterity as a pass-catcher and impressive foot speed.

How many receiving yards did Eli Raridon have in college?

Eli Raridon recorded 482 receiving yards with an average of 15.1 yards per reception in 2025 at Notre Dame.

What impact will Austin Hooper's departure have on Raridon's role?

Austin Hooper's departure opens up a spot for Raridon to step in as a backup tight end behind Hunter Henry, increasing his potential production in 2026.