The New England Patriots added three players in the first three rounds of the NFL draft. Two were on offense. Their first round pick, top offensive tackle, Caleb Lomu, already made it crystal clear his intention to protect franchise quarterback Drake Maye.
Now he's been joined by a third-round pick, Eli Raridon, who says he's "pumped" to play with Patriots' quarterback Maye, as well.
Great quarterbacks are always a draw for other players who want to join them on a winning team and maybe hoist a Lombardi Trophy. The only surprise for the Patriots is that their quarterback, who's the attraction, is 23-years-old and entering only his third NFL season.
Maye lost the NFL MVP award by a slim margin and deserved the honor. No doubt it will fuel his determination for even more excellence in 2026. Early comments by his new teammates make it clear they are on board to provide the help he needs to do just that.
Tight end Eli Raridon is looking forward to teaming with Drake Maye
Immediately after being drafted by the Patriots, Raridon spoke to reporters and expressed his excitement about being able to play with Maye, who he feels is one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL.
Patriots TE Eli Raridon on Drake Maye:
— Alexandra Francisco (@ByAlFrancisco) April 25, 2026
"He's one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL and I'm really excited to play with him. I'm pumped."
Raridon is obviously impressed by what he's seen from the dynamic young quarterback and looks forward to partnering with him on the field. That's a good sign because he may just be counted upon to step up sooner rather than later to lend a hand.
Top receiving tight end Hunter Henry is 31 years old, and an injury to him will likely thrust Raridon right into the starting lineup with Maye. As a third-round pick, he'll be expected to deliver the goods right away in that situation.
The benefits of having a young franchise quarterback like Maye are evident now, not only on the field but off, as well. The MVP-in-waiting is becoming a player magnet, and that bodes well for the future of the Patriots. As Maye piles up more personal accolades and success, his aura will continue to grow.
Maye is a very young quarterback with a still substandard roster of players around him. Yet, as he gains more experience and maturity as a quarterback, he will continue to inspire rookies like Raridon and Lomu and attract top free agents. They'll be looking to join what should emerge as an NFL juggernaut with Maye at the helm.
The imperative for the Patriots organization is to continue to improve the personnel around this prolific young quarterback.
Additional improved O-line depth is still required, as is adding top NFL receiving talent to partner with Maye. Hopefully, that particular requirement will be met in 2026 through a trade for the Eagles' A.J. Brown after June 1st.
Meanwhile, having rookies like Raridon and Lomu psyched to join the Patriots' Express, and Maye is a great sign. It signifies that the Patriots' train is back on track and possibly headed toward winning additional Lombardi Trophies.
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