Who Should I Start? Austin Hooper or Chig Okonkwo

Sunday, March 9, 8:57 PM

The New England Patriots are re-signing veteran tight end Austin Hooper to a one-year, $5 million deal with a max value of $7 million. Hooper, a two-time Pro Bowler, notched 45 receptions and 476 yards with New England a season ago, his highest marks since his 2021 stint with the Cleveland Browns. While he began the 2024 season cold, the 30-year-old picked it up over the back half -- racking up four catches in five of his last seven appearances as then-rookie signal-caller Drake Maye got acclimated to the NFL. The Stanford product played second fiddle to fellow tight end Hunter Henry last season and figures to do so again if his teammate stays healthy, as the latter out-paced the former handily in snaps (835-575) despite playing in one fewer contest. It's possible Hooper returns some TE2 value this upcoming season, but he's better off left to waivers until he proves otherwise.

Friday, June 20, 5:54 PM

Tennessee Titans tight end Chig Okonkwo is reportedly looking good in recent open practices. Okonkwo has caught the most passes during OTAs and appears to be building a strong chemistry with rookie quarterback Cam Ward. The former fourth-round pick hasn't been too successful over his first three seasons. Over the last two years, Okonkwo has hauled in 50-plus receptions and under 550 receiving yards both seasons. The Titans don't have a ton of competition at tight end, so Okonkwo should remain the top option at that position. We could possibly be looking at a breakout campaign if these two continue building chemistry.