Who Should I Start? Austin Hooper or Anthony Firkser

Sunday, January 5, 10:23 PM

New England Patriots tight end Austin Hooper caught four of his six targets for 27 yards during Sunday's Week 18 win over the Buffalo Bills. The veteran tight end handled an increased workload in the regular-season finale, playing 67.2 percent of the Patriots' offensive snaps with Hunter Henry (foot) sidelined. The 30-year-old finished as a low-end TE2 in fantasy football this season with 45 catches, 476 yards, and three touchdowns. Hooper was a pleasant surprise during his first year in New England, maintaining a significant role on offense despite being listed second on the depth chart behind Henry. He's slated to hit free agency in March but could be a priority re-signing for the Patriots' next coaching regime.

Tuesday, July 30, 6:07 PM

The New York Jets have signed former Detroit Lions tight end Anthony Firkser. Firkser joins a Jets tight end room led by Tyler Conklin. Firkser only appeared in two games for the Lions in 2023 and did not record a statistic. This appears to be a depth add for the Jets as they prepare for the season's long haul with eyes set on the Super Bowl. Time will tell if Firkser manages to make the final roster. This move is of little consequence for fantasy football.