Raridon Scores First Touchdown of 2026 NFL Season
New England Patriots tight end Eli Raridon, a former Iowa high school star, caught a two-yard touchdown pass from Drake Maye in the season opener against Seattle. It was the first touchdown of the NFL season and the first of Raridon's career. He was selected in the third round of the 2026 draft out of Notre Dame.
Raridon's high school career at Valley included a senior season with 53 receptions and 10 touchdowns, plus a state runner-up finish as a sophomore. He also earned all-state honors in basketball. Following his father's path, he played at Notre Dame, where he overcame a torn ACL to eventually start all 12 games as a senior, recording 32 catches for 482 yards.
Selected 95th overall in the 2026 draft, Raridon joins a tight end room that includes veteran Hunter Henry. His two-yard scoring grab from Drake Maye in the season opener against Seattle marked both the first touchdown of the 2026-27 campaign and the first of his professional career.
The early touchdown could boost Raridon's confidence and visibility, potentially solidifying his role in the Patriots' offense. For Iowa high school football fans, this achievement may inspire local athletes by demonstrating a clear pathway from state prep programs to the professional stage. Additionally, the timing of the score in a Super Bowl rematch might generate early-season momentum for New England, influencing team morale and fan engagement as the season unfolds.