Patriots sign former Raiders tight end to a 1-year deal
The New England Patriots have agreed to a deal with Raiders tight end Austin Hooper, per Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network. The deal is for one-year worth up to $4.25 million.
Mike Reiss of ESPN adds that the deal has a base value of $3 million.
Hooper will take the place of Mike Gesicki as the Patriots number two tight end behind Hunter Henry. Gesicki has already agreed to a deal with the Cincinnati Bengals.
The 29-year old Hooper played in all 17 games last season, making 25 receptions for 234 yards and no touchdowns. The Patriots will be his fifth team since starting his NFL career in 2016. One of those teams was the Cleveland Browns, where he gained familiarity with now Patriots offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt.
Van Pelt held the same title when Hooper was with the Browns in 2020 and 2021. During those two seasons, Hooper racked up 84 catches, 780 yards, and seven touchdowns.
Hooper originally joined Cleveland on a 4 year, $44 million contract. The former third round pick was coming off back to back pro-bowl seasons with the Atlanta Falcons where he nearly doubled his receiving numbers. Hooper brought in 146 receptions for 1447 yards.
The role and the contract with New England will not be tied to lofty expectations. Hooper will look to compliment Henry in the passing game. The Patriots also have La’Michael Pettway on their tight end depth chart.
