Patriots go with TE Jaheim Bell in 7th round

The New England Patriots selected Florida State tight end Jaheim Bell in the seventh round of the 2024 NFL Draft, No. 231 overall.

Bell is a rare dynamic threat at tight end, forcing the second-most missed tackles (36) at his position in college since 2021, per PFF. The former Seminoles standout had 503 yards and two touchdowns on 39 catches in 2023 after joining the school via transfer from South Carolina.

The Patriots have gone heavy on offense in the draft, with seven players taken on that side compared to one defensive prospect.

New England has two established veteran tight ends atop the depth chart in Hunter Henry and Austin Hooper.

Pre-draft profile

Bell doesn't quite have the athleticism or talent of Deebo Samuel, but his NFL prospects will be much better if he goes to a team that's willing to use him all over the field like the 49ers star. The 22-year-old turned in big plays from the backfield, slot, out wide, and more for Florida State. His size will likely prevent him from ever being a true in-line tight end for more than a handful of snaps per game, especially while his blocking is as inconsistent as it currently is. Bell can be a difference-maker in the correct offense, though. His hands are strong enough to come down with difficult catches, and he's more than capable of turning short gains into explosive opportunities. Bell has even shown that he can run the ball with some regularity. He totaled 84 career carries, including 73 in 2022 with South Carolina.