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Report: Patriots sign two-time Pro Bowl tight end to 1-year deal
Hooper played for Alex Van Pelt for two seasons with the Cleveland Browns.
The Patriots have reportedly found their backup tight end.
According to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport, New England is expected to sign veteran tight end Austin Hooper to a one-year contract worth up to $4.25 million. Hooper is expected to slot in behind Hunter Henry on New England’s depth chart at tight end.
Hooper, 29, appeared in 17 games with the Las Vegas Raiders during the 2023 season, catching 25 of 31 passes for 234 yards and zero touchdowns.
The Stanford product was a two-time Pro Bowler (2018-19) with the Atlanta Falcons, surpassing 70 receptions and 650 receiving yards in both of those seasons. His production has slowed down since leaving Atlanta, but Hooper has some connections with new Patriots offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt.
Hooper played for Van Pelt for two seasons (2020-21) when Van Pelt oversaw the Cleveland Browns’ offense — averaging 42 receptions, 390 yards, and 3.5 touchdowns per season in Cleveland.
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Hooper spent the 2022 season with the Titans, catching 41 passes for 444 yards and two touchdowns.
Even with Henry returning to Foxborough on a three-year contract, the Patriots had a vacancy at tight end with backup Mike Gesicki reportedly signing a one-year deal with the Bengals on Tuesday.
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