Who Should I Start? Austin Hooper or Devin Culp

Saturday, September 20, 2:49 AM

New England Patriots tight end Austin Hooper has seen increased usage within the team's offense, but it's not enough to justify starting him in fantasy football against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 3. Hooper's snap share jumped from 32 percent in Week 1 to 62 percent in Week 2, and his pass-catching volume increased, too. The 30-year-old caught all three of his targets for 38 yards last week, out-producing Hunter Henry despite playing fewer snaps than him. Hooper remains the No. 2 tight end on the depth chart behind Henry, but he's still seeing decent playing time, especially in two-tight end sets. This week, Hooper is facing a mid-range Steelers defense that has allowed the 12th-most fantasy points to tight ends. Hooper ranks as RotoBaller's TE41 this week, and he can be benched in most leagues.

Friday, January 3, 9:55 AM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Devin Culp (ribs) was upgraded from a limited participant on Wednesday to a full participant on Thursday. His counterparts at tight end both went from DNP to limited participants, so Friday's practice statuses will determine a lot heading into their season finale. The rookie saw his biggest snap share of the year in Week 17 with Cade Otton (knee) sidelined. If any of the tight ends are forced to watch from the sidelines, Culp should see some extra snaps again after posting 52 yards and three catches against the Carolina Panthers.