The New England Patriots have been busy locking up their 2026 draft class, officially signing two more rookies to their first professional contracts. Third-round tight end Eli Raridon and seventh-round linebacker Quintayvious Hutchins have both put pen to paper, bringing the team one step closer to finalizing their entire rookie group.
Raridon, selected out of Notre Dame, brings a reliable pair of hands to the Patriots' tight end room. Over 40 games with the Fighting Irish, he hauled in 48 catches for 623 yards and three touchdowns. He'll now join a tight end corps that includes veteran Hunter Henry and Julian Hill, offering quarterback Drake Maye another versatile target in the passing game.
Hutchins, meanwhile, doesn't have to travel far for his new job. A Boston College product, he spent his college career right in the Patriots' backyard. Known for his disruptive play, Hutchins recorded 72 tackles, 5.5 sacks, one interception, a forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries across 43 games for the Eagles. His familiarity with the region and physical style should make for a smooth transition into New England's linebacker rotation.
With these two signings, the Patriots have now inked five of their seven draft picks this week. The only remaining unsigned selections are first-round offensive tackle Caleb Lomu and second-round edge rusher Gabe Jacas. As training camp approaches, expect both to finalize their deals soon, completing the team's rookie class just in time for the grind ahead.
