Eli Raridon, a Des Moines native and former Notre Dame tight end, was drafted No. 95 by the New England Patriots in the 2026 NFL Draft. The selection was announced live by Patriots legend Deion Branch on ESPN. Raridon is the ninth tight end picked this year and joins a team that recently lost in the Super Bowl following a strong regular season. His family has a rich football legacy, with connections to Notre Dame and a history of athletic achievement, underscoring his journey to the NFL. Raridon's college career faced challenges due to injuries, but he emerged as a key player in his senior year.

By the Numbers
  • Eli Raridon was selected in the third round as the No. 95 overall pick.
  • He recorded 32 receptions for 482 yards in his senior season at Notre Dame.
State of Play
  • The Patriots are fresh off a Super Bowl appearance, having lost 29-13 to the Seahawks.
  • Raridon joins veteran tight end Hunter Henry, aiming to make an immediate impact on the team's offense.
What's Next

As Raridon prepares for his rookie season, he will focus on proving himself in training camp and establishing a role on the Patriots' roster. His performance could impact the team's depth chart and overall offensive strategy moving forward.

Bottom Line

Raridon's success in the NFL will hinge on his ability to stay healthy and adapt to the professional game, representing both a personal achievement and a continuation of the Raridon family's football legacy.