Overview
- The Patriots took Eli Raridon at No. 95 on Friday, staying at their slot after trading up earlier for tackle Caleb Lomu and edge rusher Gabe Jacas.
- Raridon is 6-foot-6 and about 245–251 pounds, ran a 4.62-second 40, and posted a 36-inch vertical and a 10-foot-3 broad jump at the combine.
- He twice tore the ACL in his right knee in 2021 and 2022, and team executive Eliot Wolf said medical staff cleared him with no real concerns.
- He profiles as a versatile Y tight end who can play inline or in the slot, with early snaps behind Henry and a need to add strength for every-down work.
- The pick addresses depth after Austin Hooper’s exit and could give Drake Maye a big target now and a possible future starter as Henry nears free agency.