Who Should I Start? Austin Hooper or Colston Loveland

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.

Thursday, November 27, 7:59 AM

Chicago Bears rookie tight end Colston Loveland hauled in four of five targets for 49 yards and a touchdown in the 31-28 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Loveland has emerged as a key contributor in this Bears' passing attack, totaling 40 or more yards in four straight weeks. However, veteran Cole Kmet remains a factor, splitting the snaps evenly in Week 12 (65%). While Loveland is showcasing his potential, the Bears are the fifth-most run-heavy team in the NFL, and have seven receivers who have 195 yards or more on the season. Loveland faces a tough matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, who have allowed the second-fewest fantasy points to tight ends this season. With a crowded receiving room and a tough matchup, Loveland is a risky start in Week 13.