The 2026 NFL Draft was a vital one for the New England Patriots. A year after they played for the Super Bowl, EVP of Player Personnel Eliot Wolf was tasked with improving the roster so that the Patriots don’t just get back to the Super Bowl, but find a way to win it this time.
It’s no surprise that since the NFL Draft has wrapped up, there has been plenty of debate about just how the Patriots did. Now, one anonymous rival GM has spoken to Ben Volin of The Boston Globe, praising multiple picks and the job that Wolf managed to do.
“A rival GM said he ‘love(s)’ the Patriots’ second- and third-round picks, outside linebacker Gabe Jacas and tight end Eli Raridon, comparing them to Buccaneers pass rusher Ya-Ya Diaby and former Ravens tight end (now with the Chargers) Charlie Kolar,” Volin wrote.
That’s a lot of praise for the job Wolf did on Day 2, bringing in Jacas and Raridon to the Patriots. Those comparisons are also interesting, given that Diaby is coming off a 7.0 sack season when the Patriots need pass rushers. Meanwhile, Kolar had his best season yet a year ago, snagging 2 touchdowns.
Gabe Jacas and Eli Raridon Fill Needs for the New England Patriots
GettyNew England Patriots draft pick Gabe Jacas
As an edge rusher and a tight end, Gabe Jacas and Eli Raridon fill in positions that most experts considered as needs for the New England Patriots.
Jacas, in particular, could make his impact felt right away. In fact, he’s already been getting projected as a Week 1 starter.
One major role for Jacas is going to be acting as a sort of replacement for K’Lavon Chaisson. Of course, the Patriots would also love to see him help improve the production of the defense on the whole. After all, as a team, the Patriots had just 35 sacks a season ago. So, with Jacas, as well as a healthier Harold Landry and the incoming Dre’Mont Jones, the hope is that unit will improve.
Then, at tight end, the Patriots will see veteran Hunter Henry return. However, as Henry ages, finding the next tight in New England is vital. Eli Raridon could fill that role, if not immediately, then over time and development.
That isn’t to say Raridon comes without concerns. Injuries, in particular, have been an issue for him. However, it’s clear he has the raw talent to contribute early in his career as well.
The Rival GM Praised Two Late-Round Picks for the New England Patriots
GettyNew England Patriots draft pick Quintayvious Hutchins
Much has been made about the first few picks in the draft for the New England Patriots. However, the rival GM chose not to stop there, instead praising some late-round selections as well.
“The GM believes sixth-round offensive tackle Dametrious Crownover is an intriguing developmental prospect and seventh-round linebacker Quintayvious Hutchins from Boston College ‘a great special teamer,'” wrote Volin.
Dametrious Crownover is an offensive tackle from Texas A&M who is widely viewed as a more developmental prospect. That’s fine, though, after the team drafted Caleb Lomu. It could also end up being a very smart pick if injuries eat into the Patriots’ offensive line depth, as they did a season ago.
Then, Quintayvious Hutchins is an experienced linebacker from Boston College. While there isn’t anyone who expects him to make an impact on the defense, at least not right away, Hutchins does have some talent. That can be used, as the GM said, on special teams to help him find a career with the Patriots.
Patriots Draft Picks, EVP Eliot Wolf Garner Praise from Rival GM