New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel admitted that he has been surprised with how well rookie tight end Eli Raridon can block.
The former Notre Dame standout was known for his pass-catching skills coming out of college. So there was never any doubt that he could develop into an instant offensive playmaker for the Patriots. But his ability to hold up in the blocking department has developed more quickly than the team initially envisioned.
“I think that he has a good skill set and that’s something that we have to be able to use," Vrabel said on Raridon on The Greg Hill Show. "…I think that he became a better blocker earlier than we thought. He’s really improved in that regard. He’s got a really good frame, he can run."
Raridon suffered a hamstring
injury and wasn't able to finish the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, before the injury, he had one big catch for 30 yards downfield.
He also has the only touchdown reception for the Patriots through two games this season after hauling in a pass in the end zone against the Seattle Seahawks in the opener.
Raridon is clearly gaining trust from quarterback Drake Maye and the offense early, and the team should gradually add more work to his plate. The third-round pick has made an impact quicker than most expected, and the season has only just begun.
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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Mike Vrabel says one Patriots rookie developed quicker than expected
