Who Should I Start? Austin Hooper or Pharaoh Brown

Sunday, January 5, 10:23 PM

New England Patriots tight end Austin Hooper caught four of his six targets for 27 yards during Sunday's Week 18 win over the Buffalo Bills. The veteran tight end handled an increased workload in the regular-season finale, playing 67.2 percent of the Patriots' offensive snaps with Hunter Henry (foot) sidelined. The 30-year-old finished as a low-end TE2 in fantasy football this season with 45 catches, 476 yards, and three touchdowns. Hooper was a pleasant surprise during his first year in New England, maintaining a significant role on offense despite being listed second on the depth chart behind Henry. He's slated to hit free agency in March but could be a priority re-signing for the Patriots' next coaching regime.

Tuesday, October 8, 9:19 PM

Seattle Seahawks tight end Pharaoh Brown (groin) returned to practice as a full participant during Tuesday's session. The 30-year-old was a limited participant during Monday's walkthrough, but appears to be feeling better now. That is good news for Brown as the Seahawks head into a Thursday night matchup against the San Francisco 49ers. Brown has been quiet this season and had only one reception for seven yards last week. He figures to serve as depth with Noah Fant being the primary tight end and AJ Barner has started getting involved as well. Brown can be left on the waiver wire ahead of this Week 6 matchup.