Who Should I Start? Austin Hooper or Juwan Johnson

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.

Saturday, November 1, 11:29 AM

New Orleans Saints tight end Juwan Johnson recorded five receptions on eight targets for 53 yards in the Week 8 blowout loss to the Buccaneers. This marked his second straight game with five catches, a welcome sign after totaling just seven receptions for 60 yards from Weeks 4-6. Johnson has only one touchdown on the season, but with Tyler Shough now under center, the passing game is unlikely to slow down, and he should remain involved as a receiver. In their limited time together in Week 8, Shough and Johnson connected on three passes for 35 yards. Johnson profiles as a TE2 this week, though building chemistry with the rookie quarterback could raise his value going forward.