Who Should I Start? Austin Hooper or Cade Otton

Wednesday, November 19, 2:59 AM

New England Patriots tight end Austin Hooper (concussion) carved out standalone fantasy value in his role behind Hunter Henry last season, but he has failed to establish himself as a worthwhile fantasy addition during the 2025 campaign. He went from the overall TE24 in PPR leagues last year to TE45 through Week 11 this season. The 31-year-old hasn't registered more than three targets in a single game this season, which is a major step backward after he averaged 3.5 targets per game in 2024. While Henry has cemented himself as the Patriots' top tight end and is one reason for Hooper's underwhelming year, the bigger factor is likely the wide receivers' increased productivity. Players like Stefon Diggs, Kayshon Boutte, and Mack Hollins have elevated this position room higher than in years past, leaving fewer opportunities for a backup tight end like Hooper. An injury has complicated his status even more, as Hooper missed Week 11 in concussion protocol and remains up in the air for Week 12 against the Cincinnati Bengals. Even if he plays, he'll remain off the fantasy radar in all leagues. His only path to fantasy relevance would be a Hunter Henry injury.

Friday, November 28, 8:06 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Cade Otton is looking to bounce back after posting back-to-back duds. Otton has been held to six receptions for 49 yards and zero touchdowns over his last two games. Prior to that, Otton posted a nine-catch game in Week 10. The return of Chris Godwin figures to cut into Otton's volume going forward. Also, the fact quarterback Baker Mayfield (shoulder) is banged up could impact the passing game in Week 13. Otton should be viewed on the lower end of the TE options for the upcoming matchup against the Arizona Cardinals.