Who Should I Start? Austin Hooper or Devin Culp

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, 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.