With the 2025 NFL Draft just two weeks away, the New England Patriots are finalizing their draft board, which remains confidential. However, it’s expected that tight ends—a particularly deep position group—will be a focus area for them during the selection process.
Currently, the Patriots’ tight end situation appears stable. Veteran Hunter Henry, the team’s top performer last season with 66 receptions, 674 yards, and two touchdowns, remains the starting tight end. Austin Hooper, who joined last year and contributed 45 catches for 476 yards and three scores, was re-signed on a one-year deal. Behind them are second-year players Jaheim Bell and Jack Westover, as well as fullback-tight end hybrid Giovanni Ricci, who was signed earlier this year.
With this solid foundation, New England may still look to deepen the tight end room through the draft. A number of prospects could match their needs across different rounds:
Tyler Warren (Penn State) stands out as a potential early-round pick, especially if the Patriots trade down from the fourth overall pick. He’s a well-rounded Y-tight end with size, quickness, and blocking ability, fitting the mold of a long-term starter.
Colston Loveland (Michigan) offers a modern take on the position, functioning more like a big slot receiver than a traditional tight end. He’s not as valuable in the blocking game, but his athleticism and receiving potential make him an appealing option.
Mason Taylor (LSU) is a Day 2 candidate who could be groomed as Hunter Henry’s successor. Taylor is athletic, confident in the passing game, and shows promise as a blocker, though refinement is needed.
Elijah Arroyo (Miami) has the physical tools to succeed, but injuries and inconsistency in his technique limit his current impact. Nonetheless, his upside makes him a tempting developmental option.
Harold Fannin Jr. (Bowling Green) is a high-risk, high-reward prospect. Though not the smoothest athlete or most physical blocker, his potential as a mismatch in the passing game echoes former Patriot Jonnu Smith.
Gunnar Helm (Texas), despite limited production, offers good size and reliability. He’s not flashy, but his toughness and consistency as both a blocker and pass-catcher could appeal to New England in the middle rounds.
Mitchell Evans (Notre Dame) has the tools to be a traditional Y-tight end, though his injury history is a concern. His profile is similar to Hunter Henry’s coming out of college—solid but unspectacular.
Jackson Hawes (Georgia Tech) doesn’t bring much in terms of receiving or athleticism but could serve as a solid inline blocker and rotational piece.
Luke Lachey (Iowa) offers blocking strength and size with some receiving ability. While he may begin as a third-stringer, his upside could eventually earn him a larger role.
Robbie Ouzts (Alabama) fits the Patriots’ love for versatile players. His ability to line up as an H-back or fullback makes him a possible late-round addition, especially in competition with Ricci.
With many quality tight ends in this year’s class, the Patriots have options across all rounds. Other names like Bryson Nesbit, Joshua Simon, and C.J. Dippre could also be in play depending on how the board falls.
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