Veteran Hunter Henry is returning as the top tight end for the New England Patriots this season. But the team also has an intriguing training camp battle at the position for the spots behind Henry on the tight end depth chart. Undrafted rookie Tanner Arkin emerged as part of the conversation in spring practices and has remained involved at camp.
To begin this month, Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel had a lot of positive things to say about Arkin.
“Just the learning each and every day. The competitive spirit, going against Dre [Dre’Mont Jones] and Elijah [Ponder], trying to block, be consistent and be physical,” said Vrabel. “He’s learned what to do quickly.
“I think sometimes, young players, when things start to pile on, they can slow down because they’re thinking a little bit. I haven’t seen that, so hopefully that continues.”
Arkin signed with the Patriots as an undrafted free agent this past spring. He is one of seven tight ends on the New England roster at training camp.
During his college career, Arkin mostly served as a blocking tight end. He posted 15 catches and 125 receiving yards. Arkin also ran for one yard on a single rushing attempt.
What Tanner Arkin Could Bring to Patriots
GettyThe New England Patriots added tight end Tanner Arkin in undrafted free agency.
Arkin is listed as a tight end, but his clearest path to a roster spot in New England is playing anywhere and everywhere.
In June, Arkin expressed to reporters that he wants to do whatever is asked of him. At spring practices, that included playing full back and tight end.
“I think my mindset right now is to do, do everything I can, really,” Arkin said. “I mean, I’m an undrafted rookie. I’ve been given a great opportunity, and I really just need to maximize it and show, show the team and the organization what I’m about, and that’s my plan going forward.”
Arkin started his college career at Colorado State. He played for the Rams from 2021-22.
Before the 2023 campaign, Arkin transferred to Illinois. During his final two college seasons, he had 29 receptions, 225 receiving yards and five touchdowns.
Mike Vrabel’s Depth at TE in 2026
GettyNew England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel spoke highly of undrafted rookie tight end Tanner Arkin on Saturday.
The Patriots have three rookie tight ends on the roster at training camp. That creates tremendous competition but could also give the team a tough decision at the end of the month.
Arkin, along with third-round rookie Eli Raridon, are responding well to that competition. Boston.com’s Conor Ryan named both tight ends to his list of stand out training camp players Monday.
“Whereas Raridon is looking like a potential TE2 on New England’s roster as a viable target for Maye, Tanner Arkin is also making a legitimate case for a regular NFL role as a battering ram in New England’s run game,” wrote Ryan.
“Arkin likely isn’t going to be a dynamic pass-catcher, but the 6-foot-4, 262-pound tight end has shown a willingness to be a punishing blocker who — along with fullback Reggie Gilliam — could aid New England’s run game moving forward this season.”
Raridon is likely guaranteed a spot behind Henry on the team’s roster. Arkin is off to a strong start, but to make the roster, he will have to continue performing well this month.
Arkin will compete with fellow tight ends Jack Westover, Mitch Van Vooren, Jeremiah Franklin, and CJ Dipper for opportunities.
Mike Vrabel Speaks out on Patriots Undrafted TE at Training Camp