Patriots Eye Top Tight End Prospects for 2026 NFL Draft

New England looks to bolster TE corps with elite talent

Apr. 10, 2026 at 12:37pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting in the style of Pablo Picasso, depicting the dynamic movements of a football player in shades of navy blue, red, and white, representing the Patriots' search for the perfect tight end prospect.A cubist interpretation of a Patriots tight end's dynamic movements captures the strategic complexity of the team's draft plans.Notre Dame Today

As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the New England Patriots are closely evaluating several top tight end prospects to potentially fill the void left by the uncertain futures of Hunter Henry and Julian Hill. 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.

Why it matters

The Patriots' tight end position is in flux, with veteran Henry's future unclear and Hill primarily serving as a blocker. The team is looking to find a dynamic pass-catching threat to complement their offense, while also seeking a versatile athlete who can contribute in both the passing and running games.

The details

The Patriots' current TE depth chart includes Henry, Hill, FB/TE hybrid Jack Westover, undrafted free agent C.J. Dippre, and Marshall Long. Among the top prospects, Klare offers athleticism and size, Delp has elite receiving ability, Stowers led FBS TEs in receiving yards per game, Roush is a physical blocker, and Raridon has bounced back from injury to become a reliable pass-catcher and blocker. The Patriots will likely seek a balance of proven talent and potential, aiming to fill the void left by Henry and Hill while also building for the future.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is fast approaching.

The players

Hunter Henry

A veteran tight end who had a career-best season in 2025, amassing 768 receiving yards and seven touchdowns, but his age and contract status make his future with the team uncertain.

Julian Hill

A tight end signed to a three-year deal, primarily serving as a blocker, with the team hoping to unlock his potential in the run game.

Max Klare

A transfer from Purdue to Ohio State, showing 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.

Oscar Delp

A 6-foot-5, 245-pound athlete from Georgia, with elite athleticism and the ability to pull away from defensive backs, making him a threat in the passing game.

Eli Stowers

A 6-foot-3, 240-pound pass-catcher from Vanderbilt, who led all FBS tight ends in receiving yards per game (64.1) in 2025, but his lack of blocking strength and the belief that he might transition to wide receiver make him a risky prospect for the Patriots.

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What they’re saying

“While Henry's uncertain future and Hill's primary role as a blocker make the Patriots' TE situation intriguing, 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.”

— Author

The takeaway

The Patriots' approach to the tight end position in the 2026 NFL Draft will be crucial, as they seek to find the right balance of proven talent and potential to bolster their offense and build a competitive roster for the future.