After battling injuries early in his career, Notre Dame tight end Eli Raridon is finally healthy and ready to become a major difference maker for the Fighting Irish in 2025.

Throughout Notre Dame’s rich football history, the tight end position has been one of the defining features of its offensive identity. From Ken MacAfee to Tyler Eifert, Kyle Rudolph to Michael Mayer, the Irish have consistently developed elite tight end talent — players who dominate at the college level and often move on to successful NFL careers.

In 2025, a new name is poised to add to that legacy: Eli Raridon.

After battling through multiple injuries early in his career, Raridon is finally healthy. With a fresh start and a critical role awaiting him in Notre Dame’s offense, he could be one of the most impactful players on the roster this fall.

A Career Derailed Early by Injuries

When Eli Raridon committed to Notre Dame out of Valley High School in West Des Moines, Iowa, the expectations were sky-high. Standing 6-foot-6 and weighing 250 pounds with rare athleticism for his size, Raridon was seen as one of the most complete tight end prospects in the country in the 2022 recruiting cycle.

But just as quickly as his college career started, setbacks followed.

In the spring of 2022, during his senior year of high school, Raridon suffered a torn ACL. Determined to recover quickly, he enrolled early at Notre Dame and worked tirelessly to rehab in time for the 2022 season. Against the odds, he appeared in five games as a true freshman, showing flashes of his potential.

However, tragedy struck again. In late October 2022, during practice, Raridon tore the same ACL again, sidelining him for the rest of the season and much of 2023.

“Those were some dark times,” Raridon admitted this spring. “You start wondering if you’re ever going to get back to who you were — if you’re ever going to be the player you dreamed of being.”

A Long Road Back

While recovering from a second ACL tear is daunting for any athlete, Raridon’s resilience never wavered. Under the careful supervision of Notre Dame’s training staff, he embarked on a grueling rehab process that tested both his body and mind.

“Eli’s work ethic was incredible,” head coach Marcus Freeman said. “He never took a day off, even when it was hard. He stayed mentally locked in. You could tell he was determined not just to get healthy but to come back better.”

Teammates noticed too.

“Seeing what Eli went through, the way he kept showing up every day, it was inspiring,” quarterback CJ Carr said. “You root for guys like that.”

By the time the 2024 season wrapped up, Raridon had begun participating fully in practice sessions. The coaching staff, however, remained cautious, prioritizing his long-term health over short-term gains. As a result, he saw limited action but impressed with his blocking ability and physical presence when called upon.

Now, in the spring of 2025, Raridon is not just healthy — he’s thriving.

An Offseason of Growth

Heading into spring practices, tight ends coach Gerad Parker made it clear: Raridon was going to be a key piece of the offensive puzzle this fall.

“Eli’s athleticism, his length, his ability to create mismatches — you just don’t find that every day,” Parker said. “We’re excited to unleash him in 2025.”

Throughout the spring, Raridon has been one of the most talked-about players at practice. Whether it’s catching passes over the middle, sealing the edge on running plays, or making contested catches in the red zone, he has consistently stood out.

Offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock echoed the excitement.

“We’re seeing the guy we always knew he could be,” Denbrock said. “He’s a matchup nightmare. Too fast for linebackers, too big for safeties. You can build parts of your offense around that kind of talent.”

Raridon has also bulked up during his rehab, adding nearly 10 pounds of muscle while maintaining his elite flexibility and speed. Listed now at 6-foot-6 and 260 pounds, he presents an imposing figure on the field.

“I feel stronger, faster, and smarter about the game,” Raridon said. “All the film study, all the time watching while I was hurt — I think it’s made me a better player mentally.”

A New Look Offense

Notre Dame’s offense in 2025 will look different from previous years. With new quarterback CJ Carr at the helm, the Irish are expected to implement a more dynamic passing attack. That shift bodes well for a tight end like Raridon, who thrives in open space and can create havoc in the seam.

Carr and Raridon have quickly developed chemistry, often connecting in key situations during scrimmages and practices.

“Eli’s a security blanket for me,” Carr said. “I know if I put the ball near him, he’s going to make a play. He’s so reliable.”

Notre Dame’s receiver room is also loaded with talent, which should prevent defenses from keying too heavily on Raridon. Still, coaches believe he can be a go-to option, especially in the red zone and on third downs.

“In today’s game, you need guys who can win one-on-one matchups,” Denbrock said. “Eli can do that, and he can do it at multiple spots — inline, in the slot, even split out wide.”

Leadership Role Emerging

While his play on the field will undoubtedly be important, Raridon’s leadership could be just as valuable for the 2025 Irish.

Despite being sidelined, Raridon remained active in the locker room over the past two seasons, mentoring younger players and offering encouragement to teammates. Now, as an upperclassman with high expectations, he’s embraced the role of leader more fully.

“I’ve been through a lot,” Raridon said. “I think I can help guys who are struggling or who need someone to talk to. It’s not just about me anymore. It’s about all of us, trying to achieve something special.”

His maturity hasn’t gone unnoticed.

“You can tell Eli’s one of the guys people listen to,” Freeman said. “He’s earned that respect.”

Outlook for 2025

If spring practice is any indication, Notre Dame fans should be excited about what Raridon can bring this fall.

He’s expected to start and be a major weapon in both the passing and running games. Notre Dame plans to utilize multiple tight end sets at times, and Raridon’s versatility allows the offense to disguise plays and create mismatches against opposing defenses.

Analysts around the country have begun to take notice too.

“Eli Raridon could have a breakout year for Notre Dame,” said ESPN’s Tom Luginbill. “If he stays healthy, he’s the kind of tight end who could be an early-round NFL Draft pick.”

Of course, health will always be a storyline given his injury history. But if the past year has shown anything, it’s that Raridon has put in the work to give himself the best possible chance for success.

“I’m not taking anything for granted,” Raridon said. “Every day I’m grateful just to be out there playing the game I love.”

A Story of Perseverance

In many ways, Eli Raridon’s journey is about more than just football. It’s a story of perseverance, grit, and faith. It’s a reminder that even when dreams are derailed, they can be rebuilt with determination and heart.

Notre Dame will enter the 2025 season with lofty goals: a College Football Playoff berth, an ACC title, and a shot at the national championship. Achieving those dreams will take contributions from players across the roster.

And if Eli Raridon has anything to say about it, he’ll be right in the middle of it all — catching touchdowns, making key blocks, and showing what’s possible when you refuse to give up.

“I believe my best football is ahead of me,” Raridon said. “I can’t wait to show everyone what I can do.”