Who Should I Start? Eli Raridon or Joe Royer

Saturday, May 2, 11:25 AM

After recording 32 receptions for 482 yards and zero touchdowns across 12 games as a senior at Notre Dame in 2025, tight end Eli Raridon was selected in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots. Raridon is considered a developmental prospect as a receiver but offers three-down potential and graded out as a solid athlete relative to his position at this year's Draft Combine. The Patriots have veteran Hunter Henry firmly atop their tight end depth chart, which could limit Raridon's fantasy upside as a rookie. However, Raridon should be the favorite to earn the TE2 role in New England. With Henry entering his age-32 season in 2026, Raridon could emerge as the tight end of the future for the Patriots if he holds his own in his first NFL season. Raridon is unquestionably a tight end name worth monitoring for dynasty managers heading into 2026.