The 2026 NFL Draft is fast approaching, and the New England Patriots are gearing up to make some strategic moves. With a focus on bolstering their tight end (TE) position, the team is eyeing several prospects who could fit their needs perfectly. While Hunter Henry and Julian Hill currently anchor the Patriots' TE corps, their futures are uncertain, leaving a void that needs to be filled. Among the top contenders are Max Klare, Oscar Delp, Eli Stowers, Sam Roush, and Eli Raridon, each bringing unique skills and potential to the table. However, the real question is: who will the Patriots target, and why? Let's dive into the analysis.
The Patriots' Current Tight End Landscape
The Patriots' TE situation is a mix of experience and potential. Hunter Henry, a stalwart of the position, had a career-best season in 2025, amassing 768 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. However, his age and contract status make his future with the team uncertain. Meanwhile, Julian Hill, signed to a three-year deal, is primarily a blocker, with the team hoping to unlock his potential in the run game. The depth chart is rounded out by FB/TE hybrid Jack Westover, undrafted free agent C.J. Dippre, and Marshall Long, each bringing their own set of skills and limitations.
Analyzing the Top Tight End Prospects
Max Klare (Ohio State)
Max Klare, a transfer from Purdue to Ohio State, showed promise as a pass catcher, despite a slight dip in production. His athleticism and size make him an intriguing prospect for the Patriots, who could utilize him as a Y-tight end. However, his ranking (74th) suggests that he might be a bit of a reach for the Patriots, who are likely looking for more proven talent. In my opinion, Klare's potential is exciting, but his limited production at Ohio State raises questions about his readiness for the NFL.
Oscar Delp (Georgia)
Oscar Delp, a 6-foot-5, 245-pound athlete, is an intriguing prospect. His elite athleticism and ability to pull away from defensive backs make him a threat in the passing game. While his receiving stats (18.9 yards per game over his final three seasons) might be underwhelming, his size and blocking ability could make him a valuable asset for the Patriots. The team's interest in hosting him for a visit suggests that they see something special in Delp, who could be a dark horse candidate for their first-round pick.
Eli Stowers (Vanderbilt)
Eli Stowers, a 6-foot-3, 240-pound pass catcher, led all FBS tight ends in receiving yards per game (64.1) in 2025. However, his lack of blocking strength and the belief that he might transition to wide receiver make him a risky prospect for the Patriots. While his athleticism is impressive, his limited role as a pass catcher and the potential for a position change could be a deal-breaker. In my view, Stowers is a high-risk, high-reward prospect who might be better suited for a team looking for a wide receiver.
Sam Roush (Stanford)
Sam Roush, a traditional Y-tight end, is a physical blocker with impressive athleticism, as evidenced by his 9.94 Relative Athletic Score at the NFL Combine. However, his arm length and wingspan could be a liability in the passing game, affecting his ability to catch and block effectively. While Roush's athletic profile is intriguing, his limitations in the passing game might make him a better fit for a team that values blocking over receiving. In my opinion, the Patriots might be better off looking for a more well-rounded prospect.
Eli Raridon (Notre Dame)
Eli Raridon, a Notre Dame tight end, has bounced back from ACL injuries to become a reliable pass catcher and blocker. His large hands and athletic profile make him a threat in contested catch situations and a solid run-blocker. While his ranking (137th) might suggest that he is a later-round pick, the Patriots could be intrigued by his versatility and potential to contribute immediately. In my view, Raridon is a solid, unsung prospect who could be a steal for the Patriots in the later rounds of the draft.
The Patriots' Tight End Strategy
The Patriots' approach to the TE position in the 2026 NFL Draft is likely to be strategic and calculated. With Henry's uncertain future and Hill's primary role as a blocker, the team is likely looking for a combination of proven pass catchers and versatile athletes who can contribute in both the passing and running games. While Klare and Delp offer exciting potential, their limitations and rankings suggest that the Patriots might be more inclined to target later-round prospects like Raridon or even consider a trade-up for a more established talent like Stowers. In my opinion, the Patriots' strategy will likely be to balance proven talent with potential, aiming to fill the void left by Henry and Hill while also building for the future.
Conclusion: The Patriots' Tight End Puzzle
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the Patriots are faced with a fascinating tight end puzzle. With a mix of experienced veterans and promising prospects, the team has several options to choose from. While Henry and Hill provide a solid foundation, the future of the position is uncertain. The Patriots' strategy will likely involve a careful balance of proven talent and promising athletes, with a focus on versatility and potential. In my opinion, the team's approach will be key to their success in the coming years, as they navigate the draft and free agency to build a competitive roster. The tight end position, in particular, will be a fascinating area to watch, as the Patriots seek to find the perfect fit for their needs and build a winning culture.
