Patriots draft profile: Justin Joly might have the best hands in the class

RALEIGH, NC - SEPTEMBER 06: Tight End Justin Joly #7 of the NC State Wolfpack completes a reception while being brought down by a Virginia Cavaliers defender during the College Football game between the NC State Wolfpack and the Virginia Cavaliers on September 6, 2025 at Carter-Finley Stadium in Raleigh, North Carolina. (Photo by Katherine Gawlik/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images On paper, it appears the New England Patriots are in solid shape at tight end. Hunter Henry was one of their most reliable players in 2025; Julian Hill was recently added on a three-year contract; Jack Westover offers positional flexibility; C.

J. Dippre and Marshall Lang provide developmental depth. However, tight end might be one of the most pressing needs on the roster heading into this year’s NFL Draft.

Henry was a non-factor in the playoffs and will turn 32 this season; Hill’s pact is effectively of the year-to-year variety; Westover is unproven as a pro-level tight end, as are Dippre and Lang. The Patriots adding to the mix later this month therefore makes plenty of sense. And if they opt to, Justin Joly is a player worth keeping on the radar.

Hard facts Name: Justin Joly Position: Tight end School: N. C. State (Sr.