Who Should I Start? Austin Hooper or Cole Kmet

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.

Saturday, November 15, 6:31 PM

Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet (back) doesn't carry an injury designation into Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings. He was limited to begin the week, but has been cleared to play after getting in back-to-back full practice sessions. Despite being active, Kmet hasn't been much of a factor in the offense lately. In fact, Kmet has been held to one reception in each of his last four games. He continues to split up reps with Colston Loveland who has been the much better fantasy option. At the moment, it's tough to imagine Kmet having much fantasy value going forward. He'll be a touchdown-dependent option for Week 11.