When it comes to building a game worth watching, New England Patriots rookie tight end Eli Raridon knows exactly who to study. The third-round pick out of Notre Dame has set his sights on one of the NFL's most dynamic playmakers: San Francisco 49ers star George Kittle.

Kittle, a five-time All-Pro and seven-time Pro Bowler, is known for his rare blend of bruising blocking and explosive receiving skills—a combination Raridon aims to replicate. "I've looked up to George Kittle a lot," Raridon shared after being drafted. "Love the way he blocks, love his mentality while playing the game. Obviously, he makes great plays in the passing game as well."

And the tape backs it up. Last season with the Fighting Irish, Raridon proved he's the complete package, hauling in 32 catches for 482 yards—an impressive 15.1 yards per reception—while running a diverse route tree. That kind of production, paired with his blocking prowess, has Patriots fans buzzing about his potential.

If Raridon develops anywhere close to Kittle's level, this draft pick could be a home run for New England. But the rookie knows he has his own path to forge. Standing in his way is veteran tight end Hunter Henry, who at 31 remains a trusted target for quarterback Drake Maye. Still, with Henry aging and the Patriots looking to the future, Raridon has every opportunity to carve out his own legacy.

For now, the rookie is focused on learning from the best—and maybe one day, he'll be the one young players look up to.