The New England Patriots are retaining a well-recognized face of their tight finish room. The staff has agreed to a one-year, $5 million contract with veteran tight finish Austin Hooper, with a most worth of $7 million, in response to Adam Schefter on X, previously Twitter. The deal consists of $4 million in assured cash.
Hooper, 30, initially signed with the Patriots final season on a one-year, $3 million contract and shortly turned a dependable goal in New England’s offense. He performed in all 17 video games, recording 45 receptions for 476 yards and three touchdowns. His efficiency earned him a elevate and one other alternative to contribute in 2025.
A former third-round decide by the Atlanta Falcons in 2016, Hooper brings a wealth of expertise to the Patriots. He earned Professional Bowl alternatives in 2018 and 2019 whereas enjoying for Atlanta earlier than transferring on to stints with the Cleveland Browns, Tennessee Titans, Las Vegas Raiders, and New England.
Austin Hooper returns to the Patriots
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This transfer reunites Hooper with new Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, who beforehand labored with him throughout his time with the Titans. With Hooper again within the combine, New England retains a stable pass-catching tight finish to enrich Hunter Henry, who stays below contract after signing a three-year, $27 million deal final offseason. Henry is coming off a robust 2024 season the place he set profession highs in catches and yards, and the duo will probably proceed to be key contributors within the Patriots’ passing assault.
Whereas bringing Hooper again gives continuity at tight finish, the Patriots nonetheless have important work to do in upgrading their offensive weapons, notably at extensive receiver. Studies have linked New England to Tampa Bay Buccaneers wideout Chris Godwin, ought to he turn into obtainable in free company. The staff is anticipated to stay aggressive available in the market, particularly with greater than $130 million in projected cap house.
Hooper’s return underscores the Patriots’ dedication to sustaining a robust tight finish presence of their offense, which has traditionally been a key aspect of their success. Whereas he is probably not the game-changing playmaker the Patriots desperately want, his regular manufacturing and familiarity with the system ought to make him a helpful asset in 2025.
With free company formally set to start, the Patriots are poised to proceed making strikes to bolster their roster. Hooper’s re-signing marks a stable begin, however New England’s entrance workplace will probably stay energetic in pursuing further upgrades to place the staff in a extra aggressive place for the upcoming season.