The New England Patriots have a very serious question mark at the tight end position in 2026.
Even before the injury to free agent signee Julian Hill, who was expected to play starter-like snaps at tight end No. 2, the Patriots' tight end room wasn't in a great spot.
The NFL is heavily leaning towards two tight end sets as the new normal. Last season was the highest rate of 12 personnel in years. It was no secret that head coach Mike Vrabel and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels were planning on following that trend.
But with the current roster, the Patriots are going to need someone to step up big time in the tight end room.
Tight end depth chart:
- Hunter Henry (#85) - 11th Season, Sixth With Patriots
- Eli Raridon (#82) - First Season, First With Patriots
- CJ Dippre (#81) - Second Season, Second With Patriots
- Tanner Arkin (#84) - First Season, First With Patriots
Keep in mind, one of those three players underneath Henry is going to be expected to be a functioning member of a Super Bowl-contending offense.
Undrafted rookie free agent Tanner Arkin out of Illinois told reporters that he believes he fits into McDaniels' offense.
"We use a lot of different personnel,” Arkin said. "We use a fullback, multiple tight end sets, and just the history of Coach McDaniels and what how he’s used the tight end in the past, I think it’s a great fit. I love playing for him and for the team, and it’s been great so far."
The team also has fullbacks Reggie Gilliam and Jack Westover under contract. Both players have experience playing tight end. If one of the young players does not step up in a big way in August, that tight end No. 2 position could belong to one of them.
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