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Eli Raridon scores first NFL touchdown for New England Patriots

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 17, 2026, 10:50 PM

Last updated Sep 17, 2026

Eli Raridon scores first NFL touchdown for New England Patriots

Summary

Eli Raridon, the former Notre Dame tight end, scored his first NFL touchdown on September 17, 2026, during the New England Patriots' season opener against the Seattle Seahawks. Raridon caught a 2-yard pass from quarterback Drake Maye in the second quarter after a pass interference call set up the play. Head coach Marcus Freeman, who coached Raridon at Notre Dame, congratulated him via video call, expressing pride in his achievement. Raridon noted the difference in celebrating touchdowns in the NFL compared to college, emphasizing the freedom players have in the professional league.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Raridon caught a 2-yard touchdown pass from Drake Maye.
•The touchdown occurred in the Patriots' opener against the Seahawks.
•Freeman coached Raridon during his time at Notre Dame from 2022 to 2025.
•Raridon's score is the first touchdown of the 2026 NFL season.
•He highlighted the difference in celebrations between college and the NFL.

Latest Updates

10:50 PMYahoo Sports — Freeman congratulates former Irish tight end Eli Raridon on 1st NFL TD

What they're saying

"
Coach Marcus Freeman had to make sure he congratulated his former tight end Eli Raridon after the rookie scored his first NFL touchdown last week.
— Yahoo Sports

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