65% of 2026 NFL Draft Picks Sign Contracts

Two weeks after the 2026 NFL Draft concluded, 65 percent of selected players have signed rookie contracts, signaling a swift transition to on-field preparations across the league. As of Friday, 166 of 257 picks had agreed to terms, with rounds five and seven leading at 85 percent signed. First-round signings lag at 37 percent, slowed by negotiations over fully guaranteed deals, though progress continues amid rookie minicamps.

The New England Patriots advanced their roster buildup Saturday by signing third-round tight end Eli Raridon from Notre Dame and seventh-round edge rusher Quintayvious Hutchins from Boston College. Raridon, a 6-foot-6 blocker with 482 receiving yards in 2025, steps in behind Hunter Henry following Austin Hooper's departure. Hutchins, with 3.5 tackles for loss and two sacks last season, offers versatility from special teams to the edge. "You're going to get an energetic, young kid that's ready to work," Hutchins said on his introductory call. These additions join five other signed rookies, leaving first-round tackle Caleb Lomu and second-round edge rusher Gabe Jacas unsigned. Jacas observed minicamp without participating, while Lomu practiced.