New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel is confident that tight end Eli Raridon will be able to play with NFL-level speed next season.
Speaking at a press conference, Vrabel spoke highly of Raridon and the vision that he has for him for next season. The Patriots are clearly expecting a lot from the rookie third-round draft pick after losing veteran Julian Hill to a season-ending injury.
Austin Hooper also left for the Atlanta Falcons in free agency.
“New offense,” Vrabel said. “New scheme. New NFL. Capable, willing learner. We’ll see when pads come on. Things change. But I think he’s tried to play with the speed that we felt like he had, and may not always have shown.”
Raridon is in line to be the Patriots’ backup tight end behind Hunter Henry next season. He went for 482 receiving yards in his final collegiate year at Notre Dame and was highly-touted for his skills as a receiver and a blocker.
New England approaches next season with a crowded receiving corps. Vrabel’s plan for Raridon falls in line with the offense that the Patriots intend to run in 2026.
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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Patriots coach Mike Vrabel shares early thoughts on rookie Eli Raridon
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