New England Patriots
Hill — who signed a three-year deal in New England this spring — was expected to be the team’s backup tight end behind Hunter Henry.
Hill was expected to step into a greater role this season with the Patriots. AP Photo/Charles Krupa
June 1, 2026 | 6:48 PM
1 minute to read
The New England Patriots added A.J. Brown on Monday evening via a blockbuster deal with the Eagles.
But, New England’s depth chart at tight end took a significant hit as well.
The Patriots announced on Monday that Julian Hill has been placed on injured reserve, ending his 2026 season before it could even begin in earnest.
Hill — who signed a three-year, $15 million contract with New England in March — was expected to step into a significant role as the Patriots’ backup tight end behind Hunter Henry this season.
The 25-year-old tight end spent the last three seasons with the Dolphins, reeling in 15 catches for 140 yards over 11 games in 2025 while contributing in pass protection and the run game with plenty of blocking.
The replacement for the previous TE2, Austin Hooper, Hill was looking forward to stepping into a greater role in Foxborough. Now, those plans will be on hold for at least a season.
“Man, I want to win,” Hill said last month. “When you tell me to do something, that’s my focus and I’m going to do it. So if they say we need you to catch five more passes this year, block this guy, whatever it is, I’m going to do it.”
With Hill sidelined, the focus now shifts to 2026 third-round pick Eli Raridon, who might be in line for a more elevated role on the roster this season unless New England makes any roster additions at the tight-end spot before the season begins in September.
Other tight ends currently on New England’s roster include CJ Dippre and undrafted rookie Tanner Arkin, while fullback Jack Westover could also earn reps at that position if needed.
Conor Ryan is a staff writer covering the Bruins, Celtics, Patriots, and Red Sox for Boston.com, a role he has held since 2023.
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