The Patriots are continuing to build around Drake Maye — and their latest move adds another weapon to the offense.

---

Patriots Sign Former Dolphins Tight End Julian Hill to Three-Year Deal

The New England Patriots have strengthened their tight end room by signing former Miami Dolphins tight end Julian Hill to a three-year contract, according to reports.

Hill, 25, spent the first three seasons of his NFL career with Miami before becoming an unrestricted free agent this offseason.

From Undrafted Rookie to NFL Contributor

Hill entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2023 after a five-year college career at Campbell University.

Despite going undrafted, he quickly made the Dolphins’ roster and became the first player from Campbell to make an NFL roster.

During his time in Miami, Hill appeared in multiple games and gradually carved out a role in the offense.

Across three seasons with the Dolphins, he recorded:

• 33 receptions
• 288 receiving yards

In his rookie season alone, he played 15 games and caught six passes for 48 yards.

Filling a Need in New England

The Patriots had a need at tight end after Austin Hooper left in free agency to join the Atlanta Falcons.

While Hunter Henry remains the team’s starting tight end and offensive captain, he is now over 30 years old, making depth at the position increasingly important.

Hill provides:

• Depth behind Henry
• A younger long-term option
• Flexibility in offensive formations

Patriots Planning More Two-Tight-End Sets

New England is expected to increase its use of “12 personnel”, which features two tight ends on the field at the same time.

That offensive approach could benefit quarterback Drake Maye, giving him additional blocking help and short-to-intermediate receiving options.

Hill now joins a Patriots tight end group that includes:

• Hunter Henry
• C.J. Dippre
• Marshall Lang
• Jack Westover

Patriots Already Looking Ahead to 2026

New England is entering the new season with high expectations after a 14–3 record and an AFC championship in 2025.

However, the Patriots are still motivated after losing Super Bowl LX to the Seattle Seahawks.

The team will begin preparations for the new season when offseason workouts start on April 20.

For now, the Patriots continue to add pieces as they aim to defend their AFC title and return to the Super Bowl.