Eli Raridon’s first NFL catch was the first touchdown of the season

The Patriots rookie turned his regular-season debut into a piece of league history with one wide-open catch in Seattle.

By Irish Desk / 1 source / Published September 15, 2026 / Updated September 15, 2026

Eli Raridon’s first NFL reception was also the first touchdown of the 2026 season. Drake Maye found the former Notre Dame tight end wide open for a two-yard score in New England’s opener against Seattle.
Raridon finished his regular-season debut with one catch for two yards and a touchdown. The play gave the Patriots a 7–0 lead, although Seattle came back to win 13–10.
That is a debut worth keeping: one catch, six points and the opening touchdown of the league’s new season. The NFL’s clip is embedded below.
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