Who Should I Start? Austin Hooper or Theo Johnson

Saturday, September 6, 9:53 AM

New England Patriots tight end Austin Hooper had a pleasantly surprising 2024 season, but he's not on the fantasy radar for the team's 2025 season opener against the Las Vegas Raiders. After all, Hooper is still the No. 2 tight end in New England and should continue to operate behind Hunter Henry. There will be two-tight end sets and opportunities for Hooper to get involved, but not enough to justify rostering him in fantasy football, especially when so many other tight ends are healthy and bye weeks haven't started up yet. Despite a matchup against the Raiders, who allowed the third-most fantasy points to tight ends last year, Hooper can be left on waivers.

Saturday, September 6, 1:59 AM

New York Giants tight end Theo Johnson is a high-upside fantasy option entering his second season as the unquestioned top tight end. As a rookie in 2024, Johnson averaged 4.47 fantasy points per game and showcased his potential with 331 receiving yards. The matchup against the Washington Commanders is a difficult one, as they were the 8th-ranked fantasy defense against tight ends in 2024, allowing an average of only 9.16 points per game to the position. However, Johnson's athletic profile and newfound role as a top target for quarterback Russell Wilson make him an intriguing play with a higher ceiling than many might expect. He is a talented TE to watch out for each week.