Who Should I Start? Austin Hooper or Jake Ferguson

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, 5:02 PM

Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson has been a steady target for Dak Prescott all season. Ferguson has recorded at least five receptions in all but two games this year and continues to be one of the most reliable pass catchers in the Cowboys' offense. He's coming off a Week 9 performance where he posted five receptions for 50 yards against the Cardinals. This week, Ferguson and the Cowboys are set to face the Las Vegas Raiders in what could turn into a shootout (49.5 total). The Raiders' defense has been mediocre against the pass, allowing around 214 passing yards per game, which ranks 16th in the NFL. With a high implied scoring total, Dallas should be able to put points on the board, giving Ferguson plenty of opportunities in the passing game. RotoBaller currently has Ferguson ranked as the TE5 for Week 11.