Austin Hooper Injury News & Updates

Hooper (concussion) has been ruled out for Thursday's game against the Jets.

Hooper unsurprisingly didn't practice on a short week after suffering a concussion during Sunday's win at Tampa Bay. The Patriots likely will elevate Thomas Oduokya or CJ Dippre from the practice squad before Thursday night, with Hooper's absence potentially also leaving a few more snaps for FB Jack Westover or New England's WRs.

Hooper (concussion) isn't in attendance for Tuesday's practice, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.

Though the Patriots aren't expected to hold a rigorous practice Tuesday in their most extensive on-field session of the week, the fact that Hooper wasn't even working out off to the side suggests he's not expected to clear the five-step concussion protocol ahead of Thursday's game against the Jets. Assuming Hooper is ruled out for the Week 11 contest, the Patriots could have fullback Jack Westover serve as the main backup to starting tight end Hunter Henry. New England could also look to elevate one or both of Thomas Odukoya or CJ Dippre from the practice squad to add depth to the position group.

Hooper (concussion) did not participate in Monday's walkthrough practice.

Hooper entered concussion protocol following the Patriots' 28-23 win over the Buccaneers on Sunday, when he did not record a catch on one target while playing 34 of 61 offensive snaps. Hooper will progress through the league's five-step concussion protocol, which makes it unlikely that he'll be cleared to play in Thursday's AFC East tilt against the Jets. Hooper and Hunter Henry are the only two tight ends on the Patriots' active roster, which makes Thomas Odukoya and C.J. Dippre the top candidates to be elevated from New England's practice squad for Week 11 if Hooper is indeed ruled out.

Hooper didn't recorded a catch (on one target) in Sunday's 28-23 win over the Buccaneers.

Hooper was on the field for 34 of a possible 61 snaps on offense Sunday, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, while fellow TE Hunter Henry logged 53 snaps and one catch for nine yards on four targets. As long as he works in a time-share that tilts in Henry's favor, Hooper is off the fantasy lineup radar in all but the deepest of formats.

Hooper caught his only target for 20 yards in Sunday's 24-23 win over the Falcons.

As long as Hooper works in a timeshare that favors Hunter Henry, his weekly fantasy upside will be limited. Through nine contests to date, the tight end has recorded a modest 13/174/1 receiving line on 14 targets.

Hooper caught both of his targets for 38 yards in Sunday's 32-13 win over the Browns.

The veteran tight end, who was on the field for 57 percent of the Patriots' snaps on offense Sunday, continues to work in a timeshare with Hunter Henry (76 percent). As long as that remains the case, Hooper, who has put up a 12-154-1 receiving line on 13 targets through eight contests, will be on the fantasy radar only in deeper fantasy formats.

Hooper caught both his targets for 11 yards and a TD in Sunday's 31-13 win over the Titans.

Overall, Hooper has compiled a 10-116-1 receiving line on 11 targets through seven games, a rate of production that keeps the veteran tight end off the fantasy radar as long as Hunter Henry remains healthy.

Hooper, who logged 41 of a possible 64 snaps on offense in Sunday's 25-19 win over the Saints, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, caught his only target in the contest for five yards.

With just two catches (on as many targets) for 29 yards over his last three games, Hooper is off the fantasy radar as long as fellow TE Hunter Henry remains in the Patriots' lineup.

Hooper, who was on the field for 32 of a possible 49 snaps on offense in Sunday's 42-13 win over the Panthers, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, caught his only target in the game for 24 yards.

With a 7/100/0 receiving line on eight targets through four games, Hooper is only a fantasy lineup option in tight end friendly formats. That's not likely to change much in the coming weeks, as long as fellow TE Hunter Henry remains healthy.

Hooper was on the field for 37 of a possible 60 snaps on offense in Sunday's 33-27 win over the Dolphins, en route to catching all three of his targets for 38 yards, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com.

Fellow TE Hunter Henry logged 51 snaps in the contest and caught one of his three targets for nine yards. However, given a playing time arrangement that favors Henry, Hooper -- who caught one pass for 10 yards in Week 1 -- profiles as a hit-or-miss fantasy option ahead of the Patriots' Week 3 game against the Steelers.

Hooper logged 23 of a possible 71 snaps on offense in Sunday's 20-13 loss to the Raiders, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Hooper kicked off his 2025 campaign by catching his only target for 10 yards. Meanwhile, fellow tight end Hunter Henry was on the field for 66 snaps and caught four of his eight targets for 66 yards. While there figures to be weeks down the road in which the Patriots use more two-TE sets, Hooper's fantasy lineup utility is limited as long as Henry remains healthy.

Hooper (undisclosed), who had been on the active/PUP list, returned to practice Tuesday, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.

Hooper, who caught 45 (of 59 targets) for 476 yards and three touchdowns over 17 regular-season games in 2024, is thus in line to reclaim his role in a Patriots passing offense that pairs him with with fellow tight end Hunter Henry, who recorded a 66/674/2 receiving line in 16 contests last season. As long as a TE time-share that tilts in Henry's favor remains in place for New England, Hooper is only a fantasy factor in deeper formats.

New England placed Hooper (undisclosed) on the active/PUP list Saturday, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Hooper is among a group of four Patriots who were moved to the PUP list Saturday. Players on the list are eligible to return to practice and participate in preseason games as soon as they are medically cleared. Hooper re-signed with New England in March and, if healthy, is expected to be part of a tight-end tandem with Hunter Henry this season.

Hooper and the Patriots agreed on a one-year, $5 million contract with a maximum value of $7 million Sunday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Hooper will stick around New England after catching 45 of 59 targets for 476 yards and three touchdowns over 17 regular-season games in 2024. The tight end will continue to provide quarterback Drake Maye with a reliable option in the passing game while continuing make a formidable duo with Hunter Henry at his position in 2025.

Hooper finished the 2024 regular season with 45 catches (on 59 targets) for 476 yards and three TDs in 17 games.

Though Hooper spent his first season with New England working in a tight-end time share that tilted in favor of Hunter Henry (66/674/2 in 16 games), he managed to string together steady enough production down the stretch to maintain a modest but reliable floor in deeper fantasy formats. Hooper is eligible to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason, but it's possible that the Patriots could look into bringing the 30-year-old back in 2025.

Hooper caught four of six targets for 27 yards in Sunday's 23-16 win over the Bills.

Getting the start with Hunter Henry (foot) sidelined, Hooper finished the game tied with Antonio Gibson for second on the Patriots in receptions, as the duo functioned as security blankets for QB Joe Milton in his NFL debut. Hooper will be a free agent this offseason, but he shouldn't have much trouble getting a new deal after posting a 45-476-3 line on 59 targets over 17 games, his best production since 2019.

Hooper is expected to start at tight end Sunday against the Bills with Hunter Henry (foot) inactive for the contest, Taylor Kyles of CLNSMedia.com reports.

Henry's absence leaves the Patriots with Hooper, Jaheim Bell and Jack Westover as their available options at tight end. The 30-year-old Hooper is by far the most experienced option of the trio, though he's on an expiring contract, and the 3-13 Patriots may not be keen on giving a starter's workload in the season finale. Hooper enters Sunday's game having produced a 41-449-3 line on 53 targets through 16 appearances.

Hooper caught all three of his targets for 19 yards in Saturday's 40-7 loss to the Chargers.

Hooper was on the field for 24 of the Patriots' 53 snaps on offense Saturday, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, while fellow tight end Hunter Henry logged a season-low 30 snaps and didn't catch either of his targets in the contest. The duo will continue their TE time-share in next weekend's season finale at home versus a Bills team that has secured the AFC's No. 2 playoff seed.

Hooper caught four of his five targets for 55 yards in Sunday's 24-21 loss to the Bills.

Hooper logged 50 of a possible 73 snaps on offense in the contest, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, while fellow tight end Hunter Henry was on the field for 61 snaps and caught four of his nine targets for 39 yards and a TD. Though Hooper remains in a timeshare with Henry, his steady involvement in the Patriots passing game makes him an option in deeper/TE-friendly formats.

Hooper caught all three of his targets for 38 yards in Sunday's 30-17 loss to the Cardinals.

Hooper was on the field for 31 of a possible 51 snaps on offense in the contest, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, while fellow tight end Hunter Henry logged 41 snaps and caught all four of his targets for 25 yards. Though he continues to work in a time-share with Henry, Hooper has managed to catch 3-4 passes in each of his last five games, a context that has given him a degree of fantasy value in deeper/TE-friendly formats.

Hooper, who was on the field for 36 of a possible 72 snaps on offense in Sunday's 25-24 loss to the Colts, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, caught all of four his targets in the contest for 42 yards and a TD.

Fellow tight end Hunter Henry (56 snaps) caught seven of his nine targets Sunday for a team-high 75 yards, but Hooper still managed to make his mark by logging his third straight four-catch effort and scoring for the second consecutive week. The Patriots are on bye in Week 14, but Hooper's recent string of production makes him worthy of lineup consideration in deeper formats during the team's stretch run.

Hooper secured all four targets for 59 yards and a touchdown in the Patriots' 34-15 loss to the Dolphins on Sunday.

The veteran tight end continued to display impressive chemistry with rookie quarterback Drake Maye, pushing his receiving line over the last three games to a solid 11-158-1 with Sunday's production. Hooper recording his second touchdown of the season via a 38-yard grab in the fourth quarter, and given his current trajectory, he appears headed to his most productive body of work as a receiver since possibly his first of two seasons in Cleveland back in 2020, when he recorded 46 receptions for 435 yards and four touchdowns over 13 regular-season games.

Hooper (neck) has been removed from the Patriots' Week 12 injury report.

Hooper was limited at practice Wednesday, but with his removal from the injury report a day later, the tight end has been cleared to face Miami on Sunday. Though Hooper works in a time share that favors fellow TE Hunter Henry, he's recorded 3-4 catches in four of his last five contests, a pace that puts him on the radar in deeper formats, especially with six teams on bye this week.

Hooper (neck) was limited at practice Wednesday, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.

Hooper was on the field for 39 of a possible 76 snaps on offense in this past Sunday's 28-22 loss to the Rams, but the tight end is now managing a neck issue ahead of this weekend's game against the Dolphins. Hooper now has two more opportunities to practice fully before the Patriots assign their Week 12 injury designations on Friday.

Hooper, who logged 39 of a possible 76 snaps on offense in Sunday's 28-22 loss to the Rams, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, caught all four of his targets in the contest for 35 yards.

After a quiet Week 10, fellow tight end Hunter Henry (67 snaps) bounced back by catching six of his nine targets in the contest for 63 yards. While working behind Henry, Hooper carries modest fantasy upside, but he is at least involved enough in the Patriots' offense to merit lineup consideration in deeper TE-heavy formats.

Hooper caught three of four targets for 64 yards in Sunday's 19-3 win over the Bears.

For the third time in the last four games, Hooper caught at least three passes, and this time he turned the volume into a team high in receiving yards on the afternoon, and a season high for himself. The veteran tight end is still behind Hunter Henry on the Patriots' depth chart, but Hooper's 11-119-0 line on 14 targets over the last four games and steady role in the offense might give him some deep-league fantasy appeal in TE premium formats heading into a Week 1 clash with the Rams.

Hooper logged 27 of a possible 69 snaps on offense in Sunday's 20-17 overtime loss to the Titans, en route to catching his only target for eight yards, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Meanwhile, Hunter Henry (60 snaps) caught seven of his eight targets in the contest for 56 yards. With working in a time-share that favors Henry, Hooper is off the fantasy radar in all but the deepest of formats.

Hooper, who was on the field for 32 of a possible 67 snaps on offense in Sunday's 25-22 win over the Jets, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, caught three of his four targets in the contest for 15 yards.

Fellow tight end Hunter Henry (57 snaps) caught five of his six targets Sunday for 45 yards. As long Henry remains available, Hooper is only an option in the deepest of fantasy formats while working in a timeshare that continues to favor Henry.

Hooper, who was on the field for 23 of a possible 60 snaps on offense in Sunday's 32-16 loss to the Jaguars, caught four of his five targets in the contest for 32 yards, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Meanwhile fellow TE Hunter Henry (52 snaps) caught eight of his nine targets for a team-high 92 yards. Despite his uptick in usage Sunday, Hooper is not a high-percentage fantasy lineup option while working in a timeshare that favors Henry.

Hooper logged 37 of 66 snaps on offense in Sunday's 41-21 loss to the Texans, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Hooper finished the contest with one catch on two targets for five yards, while fellow TE Hunter Henry (47 snaps) caught three of his five targets for 41 yards and a TD. With an 8/82/1 receiving line on 16 targets through six games, Hooper is off the fantasy radar in a time-share that continues to favor Henry.

Hooper was one the field for 25 of a possible 60 snaps on offense in Sunday's 15-10 loss to the Dolphins, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Hooper wound up with one catch on three targets for nine yards in the contest, while fellow TE Hunter Henry logged 56 snaps while catching two of his four targets for 32 yards. In a time-share that leans toward Henry, Hooper's fantasy upside remains modest.

Hooper logged 38 of a possible 64 snaps on offense in Sunday's 30-13 loss to the 49ers, while catching both of his targets for 13 yards and a TD in the contest, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Meanwhile, fellow TE Hunter Henry was on the field for 50 snaps, en route to hauling in two of his three targets for 12 yards. Through four contests to date, Hooper has combined for six catches on 11 targets for 68 yards and a TD, a pace that keeps him off the fantasy radar while working alongside Henry.

Hooper was on the field for 30 of a possible 52 snaps on offense in Thursday's 24-3 loss to the Jets, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

In a game in which the Patriots offense was held in check, Hooper caught one of his four targets for 19 yards, while fellow TE Hunter Henry (33 snaps) hauled in two of his three targets for nine yards. Hooper's fantasy upside remains modest as long as Henry remains available.

Hooper, who was on the field for 37 of the Patriots' 68 snaps on offense in Sunday's 23-20 overtime loss to the Seahawks, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, caught his only target for five yards in the contest.

The Patriots ran a fair amount of two-TE sets Sunday, but Hunter Henry (57 snaps, eight catches) was QB Jacoby Brissett's featured target in Week 2. As long as Henry remains available, Hooper's fantasy upside will remain modest.

Hooper logged 36 of a possible 65 snaps on offense in the Patriots' 16-10 season-opening win over the Bengals on Sunday, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

In the process, Hooper caught two of his four targets for 31 yards, while fellow TE Hunter Henry (54 snaps) caught two of his three targets for 18 yards. As long as Henry remains healthy, Hooper looks like a hit-or-miss fantasy option at his position.

Hooper didn't see any action in Sunday's preseason finale against the Commanders.

Per Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site Hooper was in uniform for the contest, but with top TE Hunter Henry still sidelined by an undisclosed injury and Mitchell Wilcox (calf) also unavailable Sunday, Jaheim Bell, La'Michael Pettway and Jacob Warren were given one last opportunity to make their cases for depth slotting ahead of the team's roster cut-downs. As Week 1 approaches, Hooper's fantasy upside early on this season hinges on Henry's availability. When both players are available, Hooper is slated to work in a complementary role.

Hooper (undisclosed) is in uniform for Sunday's preseason game against the Commanders, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.

Hooper is healthy enough to play after suffering an injury in practice last Saturday and subsequently missing some practice time. Meanwhile, fellow tight end Hunter Henry (undisclosed) remains unavailable for Sunday's preseason finale, and his status for the Sept. 8 regular-season opener against the Bengals remains up in the air. While Hooper's in uniform Sunday, he may not actually take the field, instead ceding playing time to rookie seventh-round pick Jaheim Bell, who is battling to make the team.

Hooper (undisclosed) didn't practice Sunday, Mark Daniels of MassLive.com reports.

Hooper suffered an injury during practice Saturday, per Phil Perry of NBC Sports Boston. The Patriots' tight-end room is now dealing with injuries to each of its top three options, as Hunter Henry also sat out Sunday due to an undisclosed issue and Mitchell Wilcox departed early with an injury. Rookie Jaheim Bell consequently ended up with increased reps during the session.

Hooper caught one of his three targets for nine yards in Thursday's 14-13 preseason loss to the Eagles.

Fellow tight end Hunter Henry sat out the contest, as he deals with a minor unspecified injury, but as long as he's available come Week 1, Hooper figures to work in a complementary role in the Patriots offense. In the event that Henry misses time at any point this season, however, Hooper could potentially emerge as a streaming option at his position.

Hooper is expected to sign with the Patriots on a one-year, $4.25 million contract, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Hooper accumulated 234 yards on 25 receptions across 17 games (nine starts) in Las Vegas last season. New England will mark his fifth team during his nine-year career. The journeyman projects to back up Hunter Henry as the Patriots' No. 2 tight end.

Hooper finished his 2023 campaign with 25 receptions for 234 yards on 31 targets in 17 games.

Hooper saw his playing time dwindle throughout the season as rookie Michael Mayer eventually earned the No. 1 role at tight end, but the latter missed the Raiders' final three contests due to a toe injury, which allowed Hooper to post a 9-80-0 line from Weeks 16-18. It may have been too little, too late for Hooper, however, and the 29-year-old could possibly look to sign elsewhere when he hits unrestricted free agency this offseason.

Hooper caught all three of his targets for 28 yards in Sunday's 23-20 loss to the Colts.

Hooper played a season-high 64 offensive snaps with rookie Michael Mayer (toe) sidelined for a second straight contest, but the former was overshadowed in the passing game by wide receiver Davante Adams, who caught 13 of 21 targets for 126 yards and two touchdowns. Hooper would likely maintain the No. 1 tight end role for the Raiders in Week 18 against the Broncos if Mayer is unable to return for the regular season finale.

Hooper caught two of three targets for 13 yards in Monday's 20-14 win over the Chiefs.

Hooper was the Raiders' second-leading receiver Monday despite notching a measly two catches for 13 yards, while the offense rushed 29 times for 157 yards to ultimately maintain a second-half lead. The veteran tight end logged 49 of a possible 55 offensive snaps with rookie Michael Mayer (toe) sidelined, and the latter's potential availability for a Week 17 tilt against the Colts remains uncertain.

Hooper is expected to serve as the Raiders' starting tight end in Monday's game against the Chiefs with Michael Mayer (toe) and Jesper Horsted (hamstring) both ruled out for the Week 16 contest, Paul Gutierrez of ESPN.com reports.

The veteran had taken a back seat to the rookie Mayer in recent weeks, but Hooper could be in store for one of his largest snap shares of the season Monday now that the other two tight ends on the Raiders' 53-man roster are sidelined with injuries. The Raiders could elevate Cole Fotheringham from their practice squad to provide additional depth Monday, but he shouldn't be a major threat to poach playing time from Hooper. Through 14 appearances on the season, Hooper has cobbled together a 16-154-0 receiving line on 20 targets.

Hooper caught his only target for five yards in Sunday's 3-0 loss to the Vikings.

Coming off the Raiders' Week 13 bye, Hooper logged just 20 offensive snaps to rookie Michael Mayer's 51 on Sunday, confirming the latter is likely to retain his hold on the No. 1 tight end role through the remainder of the regular season. Hooper's involvement figures to take a backseat to Mayer's development again Thursday versus the Chargers.

Hooper caught one pass for 14 yards on two targets in Sunday's 31-17 loss to the Chiefs.

Hooper wasn't targeted until the fourth quarter Sunday, while fellow tight end Michael Mayer saw four looks from quarterback Aidan O'Connell throughout the contest. Hooper figures to remain Las Vegas' No. 2 TE option when the Raiders return from their bye against the Vikings in Week 14.

Hooper was unable to catch his only target in Sunday's 20-13 loss to the Dolphins.

Hooper played 29 of a possible 61 offensive snaps Sunday, but rookie Michael Mayer earned five targets on the way to a 4-46-0 line. Mayer remains the only Raiders tight end worth rostering, as Hooper likely continues to serve primarily as a blocker against the Chiefs in Week 12.

Hooper caught his only target for seven yards in Sunday's 16-12 win over the Jets.

Hooper managed to overcome a minor calf injury that limited him in practice this past Wednesday and Thursday, but he was overshadowed by fellow tight end Michael Mayer on Sunday Night Football as the rookie played 56 of a possible 64 offensive snaps and caught his first career touchdown in the process. Hooper figures to retain the No. 2 TE role for Las Vegas against the Dolphins in Week 11.

Hooper (calf) doesn't carry an injury designation ahead of Sunday night's game against the Jets.

Hooper was limited in practice Wednesday and Thursday, but a full session Friday on his part set the stage for the tight end to be available Sunday. Over the course of nine games, Hooper has recorded just 13 catches for 128 yards, a modest rate of production that keeps him off the fantasy radar in most formats.

Hooper (calf) was limited at practice Wednesday.

Hooper now has two chances to upgrade to full participation ahead of Sunday night's game against the Jets. That said, with just 13 catches on 14 targets for 128 yards through nine games, Hooper is off the fantasy radar while working in a tight end time share with rookie second-rounder Michael Mayer.

Hooper caught his only target for 10 yards in Sunday's 30-6 win over the Giants.

Hooper continues to play behind rookie tight end Michael Mayer, but neither option has been able to reach significant fantasy relevance as Josh Jacobs, Davante Adams and Jakobi Meyers remain focal points. Hooper figures to take a back seat to Mayer again versus the Jets in Week 10.

Hooper caught both of his targets for 19 yards in Monday's 26-14 loss to the Lions

Hooper played just 10 of the Raiders' 46 offensive snaps Monday, his lowest snap share of the season. With rookie tight end Michael Mayer continuing to emerge as the team's top option, the veteran has become an afterthought in the team's offensive scheme. Hooper will likely continue in this backup role going forward barring an injury to Mayer. With that said, the 29-year-old should remain off the fantasy radar when the Raiders host the Giants in Week 9.

Hooper caught both of his targets for 18 yards in Sunday's 30-12 loss to the Bears.

Hooper has seen his playing time dwindle behind rookie Michael Mayer over the Raiders' past couple contests, as the former logged only 22 offensive snaps in Chicago on Sunday. Additionally, Hooper has earned just 11 total targets through the first seven weeks of the season.

Hooper caught both of his targets for 11 yards in Monday's 17-13 win over the Packers.

Hooper (36) played nearly as many offensive snaps as Michael Mayer (42), but the rookie posted a season-high 39 yards on his own two receptions. Mayer could earn more opportunities as the season wears on, but for now the timeshare at tight end remains fairly evenly split ahead of the Raiders' Week 6 tilt against the Patriots.

Hooper caught one pass for 11 yards on two targets in Sunday's 24-17 loss to the Chargers.

Hooper has yet to earn more than two targets in a single contest through his first four games as a Raider, ultimately posting a 4-51-0 line this season. Fellow tight end Michael Mayer has been even less involved through the air, leaving a majority of the offensive production to Josh Jacobs, Davante Adams and Jakobi Meyers ahead of a Week 5 matchup against the Packers.

Hooper was not targeted in Sunday's 23-18 loss to the Steelers.

Hooper's 55 offensive snaps were a season high through the first three weeks, but he failed to earn a single target, and fellow tight end Micheal Mayer was on the receiving end of a two-point conversion. If quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo (concussion) continues to prioritize Davante Adams and Jakobi Meyers, Hooper could be a tough click in most formats.

Hooper caught two passes on as many targets for 20 yards in Sunday's 38-10 loss to the Bills.

Hooper's only receptions came on back-to-back plays on the Raiders' opening drive of the second half, but fellow tight end Michael Mayer was held to just one catch for two yards on 16 offensive snaps throughout this contest. The duo figures to continue splitting duties against the Steelers in Week 3, but quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo could look their way more often if Davante Adams and Jakobi Meyers fail to clear the league's concussion protocol.

Hooper caught his lone target for 20 yards in Sunday's 17-16 win over the Broncos on Sunday.

Hooper got the start and caught the only target intended for a tight end in his debut with Las Vegas. Fellow newcomer Jimmy Garoppolo did not utilize the tight end position like he did with George Kittle during his time in San Francisco, opting to target his outside options in the narrow victory. Early second-round pick Michael Mayer wasn't used on offense, confirming that Hooper sits atop the depth chart. The veteran tight end is worth consideration in deeper formats heading into a matchup against the Bills on Sunday.

Hooper could slide to No. 2 on the depth chart after the Raiders selected fellow tight end Michael Mayer with the 35th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Vic Tafur of TheAthletic.com reports.

Hooper originally faced little competition for the No. 1 role at tight end when he signed with Las Vegas in March after the team dealt Darren Waller to the Giants, but a second-round rookie has since entered the conversation as Mayer projects to vulture first-team reps sooner rather than later. Mayer's introduction therefore limits the ceiling on Hooper's fantasy outlook, and 2017 first rounder O.J. Howard could factor into the TE mix as well.

Hooper has agreed to a one-year deal with the Raiders, Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reports.

Per Garafolo, Hooper's deal with Las Vegas is for $2.75 million, but has the potential to reach $3.5 million. The 28-year-old is coming off a 2022 season in which he recorded 41 catches on 60 targets for 444 yards and two TDs in 17 games for the Titans. With the Raiders, Hooper is slated to lead a tight end corps that also includes fellow free-agent addition O.J. Howard, now that Darren Waller has been traded to the Giants and Foster Moreau remains unsigned. In that context, Hooper has a chance to earn enough targets from QB Jimmy Garoppolo in 2023 to merit attention in deeper fantasy formats.

Hooper recorded four catches on four targets for 38 yards in Saturday's 20-16 loss to the Jaguars.

Hooper tied for the third-most targets on the team and was relatively efficient with his opportunity to turn in his highest catch and yardage total since Week 14. While his numbers rebounded compared to his 2021 campaign with the Browns, Hooper was still in a timeshare among other tight ends on the Tennessee roster including Chigoziem Okonkwo and Geoff Swaim. Hooper will hit free agency this offseason, and even if he returns to Tennessee, Okonkwo will likely step into a more significant role in 2023 to Hooper's detriment.

Hooper recorded one catch on six targets for six yards in Thursday's 27-13 loss to the Cowboys.

Several of the Titans' pass catchers saw improved efficiency with Joshua Dobbs under center rather than Malik Willis. However, the opposite was true for Hooper, as he tallied his lowest yardage total since Week 8 despite seeing his second-highest target total of the season. Prior to Thursday's game, Hooper had managed multiple receptions in eight consecutive contests.

Hooper recorded two receptions on four targets for 20 yards in Saturday's 19-14 loss to the Texans.

Hooper tied for the team lead with four targets, though he didn't manage much production with the opportunity. He delivered a key 15-yard gain on a potential game-winning drive with only 15 seconds remaining, but Malik Willis threw an interception on the following play. Hooper has now earned at least four targets in seven consecutive games.

Hooper recorded two catches on four targets for 33 yards in Sunday's 17-14 loss to the Chargers.

Hooper played fewer snaps than both Chigoziem Okonkwo and Geoff Swaim, though he was still among three Titans with four targets. He made good use of the opportunity, and his 17-yard catch late in the fourth quarter led directly to a game-tying touchdown for Tennessee. After a slow start to the season, Hooper has at least 30 yards in seven of his last nine contests.

Hooper recorded five receptions on five targets for 68 yards in Sunday's 36-22 loss to the Jaguars.

Hooper maintained a significant role in Tennessee's offense even with the emergence of Chigoziem Okonkwo, finishing tied for second on the team with five receptions. While he didn't find the end zone, Hooper managed explosive gains of 24 and 17 yards to account for the majority of his damage. He now has at least three receptions in each of his last five games, though he had previously failed to top 41 yards in that span.

Hooper recorded three receptions on five targets for 22 yards in Sunday's 35-10 loss to the Eagles.

Hooper had the majority of his involvement on a drive late in the second quarter, during which he caught a pair of nine-yard passes. He remains a part-time player with both Geoff Swim and Chigoziem Okonkwo also working into the tight end rotation, though Hooper has at least three receptions in four consecutive games. While his workload appears relatively safe, he has failed to surpass 41 yards in a game in that same span.

Hooper recorded three receptions on four targets for 30 yards in Sunday's 20-16 loss to the Bengals.

Hooper continued to see consistent involvement in the Tennessee offense and tallied his third straight game with at least four targets. He recorded receptions of 12,10 and eight yards, all three of which came on the team's drive just before halftime. While unremarkable, Hooper has posted four consecutive games with at least 30 receiving yards.

Hooper brought in all four targets for 36 yards and two touchdowns in the Titans' 27-17 win over the Packers on Thursday night.

The veteran tight end's tenure in Tennessee had mostly been a disappointment until Week 7, when Hooper started on an upward trajectory that culminated with his first pair of scoring grabs as a Titan. Hooper's first touchdown reception came on a nifty three-yard jump pass from Derrick Henry, and the second was a 16-yard grab on the first play of the fourth quarter that closed out the scoring on the night. Hooper now has a 15-172-2 line over his last five games, numbers he'll next have a chance to build on in a Week 12 home battle versus the Bengals a week from Sunday.

Hooper recorded five catches on seven targets for 41 yards in Sunday's 17-10 win over the Broncos.

The Titans took to the air more than is typically the case, as Derrick Henry was shut down on the ground. Hooper was a benificiary, and he logged his highest target and reception total of the season. He did the majoirty of his damage late, as he tallied three catches for 29 yards in the final quarter. Hooper will likely continue to play a significant role in the passing game, though it's been difficult to predict when the Titans will choose to employ a more aggressive offensive approach.

Hooper had two receptions (three targets) for 34 yards in Sunday's 20-17 overtime loss to the Chiefs.

Hooper actually turned in his one of his better stat lines in a game where his starting quarterback completed just five passes. The 27-year-old still owns a paltry 12/150/0 receiving line through eight starts, making him a non-factor in most fantasy formats heading into a matchup with Denver next Sunday.

Hooper recorded one catch on one target for five yards in Sunday's 17-10 win over the Texans.

The Titans went to an extremely run-heavy approach with Malik Willis under center, who attempted only 10 passes in the game. As a result, no Titans pass catcher tallied more than two receptions or 26 yards in the contest. Hooper now has recorded single-digit receiving yards in four of seven games on the campaign.

Hooper recorded three receptions on three targets for 56 yards in Sunday's 19-10 win over the Colts.

Hooper turned in his best game as a Titan, as he managed lengthy receptions of 23,19 and 14 yards to lead the team in receiving. Prior to Sunday's matchup, Hooper had failed to surpass 19 receiving yards in any matchup, so it's unclear whether he will continue to see an increased role in the offense. Like every Titans' pass catcher, Hooper should primarily be targeted in games where the team is chasing points.

Hooper hauled in his lone target for seven yards in Sunday's 21-17 win over the Commanders.

Hooper was on the field for 33 snaps, his highest total since Week 1. However, he remained a minimal part of the Titans' passing attack and has racked up more than one reception in a game only once this season. Overall, Hooper has six receptions for 55 yards across five games.

Hooper recorded one catch on one target for four yards in Sunday's 24-17 win over the Colts.

Hooper played only 20 offensive snaps, half the mark of Geoff Swaim. More concerning was the increased snap rate for Chig Okonkwo, who played 13 offensive snaps and also caught his first career touchdown. Hooper is likely to remain the Titans' top pass-catching tight end from a playing time perspective for a significant portion of the season, but he has only five receptions for 48 yards across four games.

Hooper (neck) practiced fully Friday and doesn't carry an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Colts, Jim Wyatt of the Titans' official site reports.

Hooper was a limited participant in Thursday's practice, but his full participation Friday paves the way for the tight end to suit up this weekend. However, with just four catches on nine targets for 44 yards in three games thus far, Hooper's fantasy impact has been modest while working in a timeshare with Geoff Swaim.

Hooper (neck) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice, John Glennon of SI.com reports.

Hooper took a step forward in activity from Wednesday and will look to graduate to full participation Friday, which would likely allow him to enter this weekend's matchup with the Colts without an injury designation. Even if the neck issue results in no restrictions for Hooper, his fantasy ceiling will be suppressed while he continues to share snaps at tight end with Geoff Swaim. Hooper hasn't played more than 62 percent of snaps or drawn more than five targets in any of the Titans' first three games.

Hooper (neck) didn't practice Wednesday, Jim Wyatt of the Titans' officials site reports.

The report notes that Hooper was spotted running on a side field during Wednesday's session. In the Titans' 24-22 win over the Raiders on Sunday, Hooper was on the field for 24 snaps en route to catching both of his targets for 19 yards, while fellow tight end Geoff Swaim (40 snaps) caught caught all three of his targets for 19 yards and a TD. Three games into the season, Hooper has been limited to four catches on nine targets for 44 yards and as long as he's in a time-share with Swaim he'll be a hit-or-miss fantasy option.

Hooper caught both of his targets for 19 yards in Sunday's 24-22 win over the Raiders.

Hooper played only 24 offensive snaps and was less involved in the offense than Geoff Swaim. He did manage receptions of 11 and eight yards, matching his highest yardage total of the season. Through three games, Hooper has only a total of four catches for 44 yards.

Hooper recorded one reception on four targets for 19 yards in Monday's 41-7 loss to the Bills.

Hooper was on the field for exactly half of Tennessee's offensive snaps, though most starters were pulled late in the third quarter. He finished tied for third on the team with four targets, but he produced little with the opportunity. Hooper should continue to serve as the Titans' primary pass-catching tight end, though that has translated to only two receptions and 25 yards across two games.

Hooper caught one of two targets for six yards in Sunday's 21-20 loss against the Giants.

Hooper was outsnapped 45-40 by Geoff Swaim, despite the seventh-year pro being listed as No. 1 tight end on the team's depth chart. Although the 27-year-old reportedly established solid chemistry with quarterback Ryan Tannehill this offseason, his little involvement in the passing game Week 1 is somewhat discouraging. Look for Hooper to play a larger role next Monday night when the Titans travel to Buffalo.

Hooper caught seven passes during Tennessee's joint practice with the Buccaneers on Wednesday, Jim Wyatt of the Titans' official site reports.

Quarterback Ryan Tannehill talked up the acquisition of Hooper prior to training camp, and the duo seems to have quickly developed a connection. Hooper could get off to a hot start to the season, as Treylon Burks (undisclosed) has had an inconsistent ramp-up to his rookie campaign while Robert Woods is hoping to be fully recovered from a torn ACL in time for Week 1. Even if both Burks and Woods are ready to go for the regular season, Hooper could realistically emerge as the third target for Tannehill in the passing offense.

Hooper has made a strong impression on quarterback Ryan Tannehill during offseason practices, Turron Davenport of ESPN reports.

The Titans have overhauled their pass catchers this offseason, moving on from AJ Brown but also adding rookie Treylon Burks and Robert Woods. Hooper is a more under-the-radar addition, particularly after a couple uninspiring seasons in Cleveland. However, he has earned praise from Tannehill regarding his feel for running routes and ability to get open out of breaks. Though Hooper is entering his seventh season in the NFL, he is still only 27 years old and could be heavily involved in the Titans' offense in 2022.

Hooper is slated to sign a one-year, $6-million deal with the Titans, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Hooper is coming off a 2021 season in which he logged 38 catches (on 61 targets) for 345 yards and three TDs in 16 games for the Browns. The 27-year-old put those numbers up in the context of working in a time-share that involved David Njoku andHarrison Bryant, to a lesser degree. With the Titans, he'll have Geoff Swaim to contend with for targets, but we nonetheless expect Hooper -- a 2016 third-rounder -- to see an uptick in looks this coming season, and with that a corresponding increase in fantasy utility.

The Browns plan to release Hooper on Wednesday, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Rumors had been percolating about Hooper's release, especially after the team used a franchise tag on fellow tight end David Njoku. Though a report last week suggested the Browns would keep Hooper, the team now sounds likely to move on from the veteran two seasons in to his four-year, $42 million contract. The 27-year-old caught 84 passes for 780 yards and seven touchdowns in 29 regular-season games with Cleveland the past two seasons.

The Browns plan to keep Hooper for the 2022 season, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN reports.

There was speculation that Cleveland would move on from Hooper, whose hefty contract has not been commensurate with the tight end's production over his first two seasons with the team. That notion grew after the Browns franchised fellow tight end David Njoku on Monday, but Fowler's report appears to end that speculation. Hooper is due $9.5 million and carries a $13.2 million cap hit in 2022, per Spotrac.com. The team would save only $2 million if they moved on, so it might be best to keep Hooper around in case Njoku doesn't live up to the $10.9 million franchise tag.

Hooper was not targeted in Sunday's 21-16 win over the Bengals.

Hooper took a step back in his second year with Cleveland, but he remains a big target and blocker at tight end. He had fewer targets (61), catches (38), yards (345) and touchdowns (three) relative to 2020. The 27-year-old tight end carries a big contract entering 2022, but the money isn't guaranteed per Zac Jackson of The Athletic, although he would cost the Browns $11 million against the cap if they chose to move on. While the return on investment is not commensurate with his salary, Hooper is a frequent target and a good blocker for a team that earns its wins through running the ball. If the Browns don't re-sign David Njoku -- there's reported interest on both sides -- then Hooper could reclaim all the targets and then some he lost in 2021.

Hooper caught two of five targets for 28 yards in Monday's 26-14 loss to Pittsburgh.

While it was position mates David Njoku's and Harrison Bryant's night to shine -- each scored a touchdown Monday -- Hooper remains heavily involved in the passing attack. He's been targeted at least five times in eight games this season, including five of the last six contests. His 61 targets are second on the team behind No.1 wideout Jarvis Landry.

Hooper caught three passes for 26 yards on five targets against Green Bay on Saturday.

When the Browns made Hooper one of the league's highest-paid tight ends as a free agent in 2020 it was assumed he'd be a focal point of the Cleveland offense, but through nearly two full seasons he has been both lightly used and highly inefficient, and he heads into the final two weeks of 2021 at risk of finishing with an average of less than 6.0 yards per target despite catching just 58.9 percent of his targets to this point. He has surpassed 42 yards in a game just once this year, so he might be touchdown-dependent for fantasy viability against the Steelers in Week 17.

Hooper has been activated off the reserve/COVID-19 list.

Hooper was unable to gain clearance to play in Monday's loss to the Raiders, but he's now poised to return to action for this Saturday's game against the Packers. In his last contest (Dec. 12 versus the Ravens), Hooper logged a 100 percent snaps share on offense, en route to catching five of his six targets for 30 yards and a TD. His return will bolster the Browns' tight end corps (which also includes David Njoku and Harrison Bryant) ahead of Week 16 action, and Hooper should see enough snaps/targets this weekend to merit fantasy lineup consideration.

Hooper (illness) wasn't reinstated from the reserve/COVID-19 list and won't be available for Monday's game against the Raiders, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Even with the NFL pushing back Cleveland's Week 15 game an extra two days in addition to relaxing the return-to-play protocols for vaccinated individuals who test positive for COVID-19, Hooper and several other key Browns players weren't able to clear the necessary protocols prior to Monday's 5 p.m. ET kickoff. With Hooper and wideout Jarvis Landry (illness) both set to miss Monday's contest, fill-in starting quarterback Nick Mullens will likely have to make do with Donovan Peoples-Jones, Anthony Schwartz (concussion), Rashard Higgins and David Njoku as his top targets in the passing game.

Hooper (illness) and the Browns will no longer play the Raiders on Saturday, after the NFL officially rescheduled the matchup between the two teams for Monday at 5 p.m. ET.

Due to ongoing COVID-19-related issues within the Cleveland organization, the NFL is hopeful that by delaying the game two days, the Browns will restore enough players from the reserve/COVID-19 list to alleviate depth concerns on the roster. Hooper -- one of 24 Cleveland players and 12 starters who has been placed on the list over the past week -- tested positive for the virus Tuesday. The NFL's decision to push the Week 15 game back two days will give Hooper some time to clear the necessary protocols, but he's not a lock to be available Monday. David Njoku would be in line to start Week 15 if Hooper isn't ready to go.

The Browns placed Hooper (illness) on the reserve/COVID-19 list Tuesday.

Last Tuesday, Cleveland added tight ends David Njoku and Stephen Carlson to the reserve/COVID-19 list, and Hooper joins them this week along with five others, including Jarvis Landry, on the active roster that all tested positive for the virus, per Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. The team has a quicker turnaround between games than normal with a Saturday matchup against the Raiders on tap, so the state of the TE room is in flux for Week 15. Currently, Harrison Bryant (ankle) and Miller Forristall are the members of the position group currently not on the COVID list.

Hooper caught five of seven targets for 30 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 24-22 win over the Ravens.

Hooper tied for Cleveland's team lead in receptions and matched his season high in targets while fellow tight ends David Njoku (COVID) and Harrison Bryant (ankle) were both sidelined. Crucially, he also found the end zone with a one-yard reception during the second quarter. That marked Hooper's third touchdown of the campaign, and depending on the Browns' tight-end situation ahead of Week 15's Saturday game versus the Raiders, Hooper may have another favorable opportunity ahead.

Hooper's slated to work as Cleveland's unquestioned top tight end Sunday against the Ravens, as Scott Petrak of The Chronicle-Telegram reports that Harrison Bryant (ankle) has been ruled out.

Bryant will be joined on the sidelines by David Njoku and Stephen Carlson, who are both on the reserve/COVID-19 list, leaving practice squad tight end Miller Forristall as the only healthy body at the position behind Hooper. Cleveland's depth at tight end has led to an inconsistent season for Hooper, but he won't have to worry about sharing targets in this rematch with a Ravens team that held him without a catch in Week 12, when both Njoku and Bryant were healthy.

Hooper did not catch any of three targets in Sunday's 16-10 loss to the Ravens.

Hooper, who led Cleveland's tight ends in snaps, was shut out for the second time this season. As has been well documented, the Browns utilize their tight ends in the passing offense, so any one of Hooper, David Njoku (five targets) or Harrison Bryant (three targets) could set themselves apart in terms of production. When it comes to playing time, however, Hooper consistently tops the position group in snaps and leads in overall targets/touches. The Browns are off Week 13 and will return to action the following week at home against Baltimore.

Hooper recorded four receptions on seven targets for 53 yards in Sunday's 13-10 win over the Lions.

Hooper tied for the team-lead with four receptions and was only out-targeted by Jarvis Landry. As has become customary, he worked primarily in the short areas of the field. On the other hand, he managed two receptions of exactly 20 yards after entering the game with only one gain of at least 20 yards on the campaign. In the three contests since Odell Beckham's departure, Hooper has seen a combined 14 targets for 10 receptions, 92 yards and a touchdown.

Hooper caught four passes for 25 yards and one touchdown on five targets against New England on Sunday.

The touchdown was the first of the day but the Browns went into the tank almost immediately afterward in the 45-7 loss. As much as the touchdown is an encouraging sign, Hooper just doesn't seem like a great fit in the Kevin Stefanski offense, and his usage is rarely a given since the Browns rotate in David Njoku and Harrison Bryant so aggressively. It will likely remain difficult to anticipate Hooper's infrequent productive games with the Brown.

Hooper caught two of two targets for 14 yards in Sunday's 41-16 win over the Bengals.

Hooper and the rest of Cleveland's tight ends shared seven targets with only David Njoku making an impact with a touchdown. It was the sixth straight game without a touchdown for Hooper, who had two red-zone targets (one called back by penalty) and leads the Browns with 10 such targets this season.

Hooper caught four of six passes for 26 yards in Sunday's 15-10 loss to Pittsburgh.

The six targets were a season-high for Hooper, who also had a pair of red-zone looks and leads Cleveland with eight targets inside the 20. Despite talk of the Browns utilizing him more this season, Hooper has two fewer targets per game than he had in 2020.

Hooper brought in two of three targets for 42 yards in the Browns' 17-14 win over the Broncos on Thursday night.

The seldom-used tight end was surprisingly the receiving yardage leader for the Browns on the night, with a game-long 34-yard grab fueling the majority of his production. Hooper had recorded just 101 receiving yards coming in -- including a meager 15 in his three prior games -- so Thursday's total equaled nearly half his production in that category to date. Hooper will hope to continue his ascent in a Week 8 AFC North clash with the Steelers a week from Sunday.

Hooper caught one of three targets for four yards in Sunday's 37-14 loss to the Cardinals.

Hooper had another red-zone target, giving him a team-high six chances inside an opponent's 20-yard line, but he's been a non-factor since Week 4. Cleveland's starting tight end has just two catches on eight targets over the last three contests. He continues to the play nearly 70 percent of the offensive snaps, so Hooper is positioned well on a team that uses its tight ends often. Unfortunately, the position group had just five targets, resulting in two catches for 10 yards in the loss to Arizona.

Hooper caught one of five targets for 11 yards in Sunday's 14-7 win over Minnesota.

Hooper entered Week 4 having caught 10 of 11 targets, but quarterback Baker Mayfield was out of sync with all of his receivers during Sunday's win. The quarterback connected with a receiver just 15 times on 31 throws. Hooper is tied for the team lead with Odell Beckham at 16 targets, a sign that he's a more trusted option in the passing game during his second year in a Cleveland uniform.

Hooper caught two of three targets for 19 yards, including a 13-yard touchdown pass in Sunday's 26-6 win over Chicago.

Hooper found an opening among three Bear defenders to score Cleveland's lone touchdown in four red-zone trips. It was his first touchdown of the season, as well as the first for Cleveland's tight ends. He's caught 10 of 11 targets for 86 yards through three games.

Hooper secured all five targets for 40 yards in the Browns' 31-21 win over the Texans on Sunday.

All three of the Browns' tight ends saw expanded roles Sunday with Odell Beckham (knee) once again out of action and Jarvis Landry (knee) exiting the game in the first quarter. Hooper led his position group in catches and targets, although Harrison Bryant outpaced him in yardage by nine. The veteran has a solid 8-67-0 line on eight targets through his first two games, but both Bryant and David Njoku are more athletic downfield threats. Nevertheless, Hooper could be in for another relatively busy afternoon against the Bears in Week 3 if Beckham and/or Landry are sidelined.

Hooper caught all three targets for 27 yards in Sunday's 33-29 loss to the Chiefs.

Cleveland's reputation for a tight-end happy offense didn't disappoint Week 1, as the threesome of Hooper, David Njoku and Harrison Bryant combined for 10 targets. Hooper was targeted once in the red zone. Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski talked during the preseason about expanding Hooper's role, but that did not materialize in the season opener. If anything, it was Njoku (five targets, three catches, 76 yards) who staked a claim as Cleveland's top receiving tight end.

Coach Kevin Stefanski said he'll expand Hooper's role this year, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports. "We're going to grow [Hooper's] role,'' Stefanski said last week. "He really understands now in Year 2 how we plan to use him, and again, I do believe his role can grow."

Hooper was disappointing in fantasy last year, but he had a better season from Stefanski's standpoint, with solid blocking helping the team's prolific rushing attack while a late flurry of receiving production contributed to a playoff appearance. He's now locked in as a starter for the second season of a four-year, $42 million contract, but regardless of his coach's intentions, there's no guarantee of improvement on Hooper's 2020 average of 5.4 targets per game. The Browns also have David Njoku and Harrison Bryant at tight end, not to mention WR Odell Beckham returning from an ACL tear as well as Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt gobbling up volume from the backfield. On the other hand, Hooper does have plenty of room to improve his efficiency after posting career lows for both catch rate (65.7 percent) and yards per target (6.2) last season. He had a 77.3 percent catch rate and 8.1 YPT in four years with the Falcons, highlighted by a breakout 2019 in which he averaged 60.5 receiving yards per game while sharing the

Hooper dropped at least three passes during Cleveland's two-minute drills Sunday, Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Quarterback Baker Mayfield was unable to score points on two drives with the first team offense against the second-team defense, partly due to Hooper's inability to hold on to passes. He also had a pass broken up in one-on-one drills by a third-string cornerback. The Mayfield-Hooper combination worked out together during the offseason, and their chemistry should improve. Hooper remains the top tight end, ahead of David Njoku and Harrison Bryant.

Hooper dropped at least three passes during Cleveland's two-minute drills Sunday, Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Quarterback Baker Mayfield was unable to score point with the first team offense against the second-team defense, partly due to Hooper's inability to hold on to some passes. He also had a pass broken up in one-on-one drills by a third-string cornerback. The Mayfield-Hooper combination worked out together during the offseason, and their chemistry should improve. Hooper remains the top tight end, ahead of David Njoku and Harrison Bryant.

Hooper (illness) returned to practice Friday, Zac Jackson of The Athletic reports.

Hooper was out for only one or two days. He was disappointing for fantasy managers last season, unable to overcome the challenge of joining a new team with a new coaching staff in a year without spring practices or preseason games. However, Hooper had a better year from the Browns' standpoint, with competent blocking helping the team's prolific rushing attack and a late flurry of receiving production contributing to a playoff appearance. He's locked in as a starter for the second season of a four-year, $42 million contract, but there's no guarantee of improvement on his 2020 average of 5.4 targets per game, considering the Browns also have David Njoku and Harrison Bryant at tight end, not to mention WR Odell Beckham returning from an ACL tear. On the other hand, Hooper does have plenty of room to improve his efficiency after posting career lows for both catch rate (65.7 percent) and yards per target (6.2) last season. He had a 77.3 percent catch rate and 8.1 YPT in four years with the Falcons.

Hooper did not participate in practice Wednesday due to illness,Andrew Gribble of the Browns' official site reports.

There's been little news out of camp about the tight ends, but the depth chart should remain the same entering the 2021 season. Hooper will top the chart followed by Harrison Bryant and David Njoku, in that order.

Hooper and QB Baker Mayfield should have better chemistry in their second season together, according to Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer.

Hooper was disappointing for fantasy managers last season, unable to overcome the challenge of joining a new team with a new coaching staff in a year without spring practices or preseason games. He had a better year from the Browns' standpoint, with competent blocking helping the team's prolific rushing attack and a late flurry of receiving production contributing to a playoff appearance. Hooper is locked in as a starter for the second season of a four-year, $42 million contract, but there's no guarantee of improvement on his 2020 average of 5.4 targets per game, considering the Browns also have David Njoku and Harrison Bryant at tight end, not to mention WR Odell Beckham returning from an ACL tear. On the other hand, Hooper does have plenty of room to improve his efficiency after posting career lows for both catch rate (65.7 percent) and yards per target (6.2) last season. He had a 77.3 percent catch rate and 8.1 YPT in four years with the Falcons.

Hooper secured seven of his 11 targets for 46 yards and a touchdown during Sunday night's 48-37 wild-card win against the Steelers.

Hooper notched a seven-yard TD catch with 34 seconds remaining in the second quarter to push Cleveland's lead back to four possessions before the halftime break. Baker Mayfield looked the tight end's way again in a key third-down goal-line situation in the fourth quarter, but Steelers defensive back Terrell Edmunds disrupted the pass to cause an incompletion. After registering just one TD over his first eight games as a Brown, Hooper has scored in four of six appearances heading into a divisional-round matchup against Kansas City. The two-time Pro Bowler has established himself as a go-to guy for Mayfield, with a team-high 11 targets in the wild-card round and a total of 37 passing-game looks since Week 15.

Hooper caught four of five targets for 37 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 24-22 win over Pittsburgh.

Hooper, who scored for the third time in five weeks, now has four touchdown receptions for the season. He's been a big part of the passing attack the last three weeks, catching 17 of 26 targets for 149 yards and two TDs during that span. With the win, the Browns clinched a playoff spot and will head to Pittsburgh next week for a Wild Card weekend matchup.

Hooper caught seven of 15 targets for 71 yards in Sunday's 23-16 loss to the Jets.

Hooper caught a ball on the game's first play, foreshadowing his heavy involvement against a Jets defense that has been the league's most generous to opposing tight ends. The veteran tight end led the Browns in targets, catches and receiving yards as the team played without its top four wide receivers due to a late-week COVID-19 outbreak. Hooper's unlikely to find as much success in Week 17 against the stingy Steelers defense, especially if he slides back down in the pecking order due to the return of some sidelined receiving options.

With several receivers landing non the COVID-19 list, Hooper is expected to be a primary target for Sunday's game against the Jets, Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Cleveland will be without wideouts Jarvis Landry, Rashard Higgins, KhaDarel Hodge and Donovan Peoples-Jones, all of whom were close contacts of linebacker B.J. Goodson, who tested positive for the virus. The development reduces the number of known targets for quarterback Baker Mayfield, who will throw to a crew of untested wideouts in Marvin Hall, Ja'Marcus Bradley and Derrick WIllies. That means known commodities such as Hooper, David Njoku, Harrison Bryant, Kareem Hunt and Nick Chubb will be prominent in the passing attack. Hooper's 50 targets are the most among the group that will be available Sunday.

Hooper (neck) caught five passes (six targets) for 41 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 20-6 win over the Giants.

Hooper missed last week's incredible contest against the Ravens with a neck injury, but he was able to get in on the scoring parade -- albeit a little late -- with a touchdown of his own against the Giants. The 26-year-old will resume his role as the team's top tight end, but he certainly has underwhelmed after signing a massive contract with Cleveland this past offseason. That said, Baker Mayfield has elevated his performance in recent weeks, so it wouldn't be surprising to see Hooper heat up as a byproduct down the stretch.

Hooper (neck) is active for Sunday's road game versus the Giants, Jake Trotter of ESPN.com reports.

Hooper started Week 15 prep with back-to-back limited listings before capping it with a full session, but the Browns still gave him a questionable designation. It's not a huge surprise considering he sat out Week 14 with a neck injury, but now that he's back in the lineup he should slot back in as the team's No. 1 running back. Having said that, Hooper hasn't surpassed three catches or 40 yards since Week 6, a span of four appearances.

The Browns list Hooper (neck) as questionable for Sunday's game against the Giants, Zac Jackson of The Athletic reports.

Though Hooper put in a full practice Friday, it wasn't enough for him to enter the weekend minus an injury designation. The Browns may have just deemed Hooper questionable as a matter of caution after his neck issue prevented him from playing in the Week 14 loss to the Ravens. Hooper hasn't experienced any reported setbacks with his neck while increasing his practice activity throughout the week, so the prevailing expectation is that he'll be ready to step into his usual role as Cleveland's top tight end once Sunday arrives.

Hooper (neck) remained listed as limited on Thursday's practice report, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.

It remains to be seen if Hooper approaches Sunday's game against the Giants listed as questionable, or free from a Week 15 injury designation, but if he does return to action this weekend, it would cut into the snap/target share of both Harrison Bryant and David Njoku.

Hooper (neck) was limited at practice Wednesday, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Hooper was inactive this past Monday against the Ravens, but the tight end's return to practice Wednesday -- albeit in a limited capacity -- bodes well for his chances of rejoining the Browns' lineup Sunday against the Giants.

Hooper (neck) returned to practice Wednesday, Jake Trotter of ESPN.com reports.

Hooper sat out Cleveland's last two practices before being made inactive this past Monday versus the Ravens. The tight end's return to practice Wednesday, be it limited or full, has him trending in the right direction in advance of this weekend's contest against the Giants.

Coach Kevin Stefanski hopes Hooper (neck) will be back for Sunday's road game against the Giants, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.

Hooper capped Week 14 prep with no reps in back-to-back practices, the result of a neck issue. Ulrich later noted Hooper's health concern wasn't believed to be serious, but the tight end still sat out Monday's loss to the Ravens. That assessment will be telling if Hooper is listed as full or limited on Wednesday's injury report, but in any case his status there will give a sense of his ability to play Week 15.

Hooper (neck) is listed as inactive Monday versus the Browns.

In advance of this game, Hooper kicked off Week 14 prep with no limitations but was added to the injury report Friday as a non-participant due to a neck concern. He's had no activity since then, and while the issue isn't believed to be serious -- per Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal -- the Browns will keep Hooper on the sideline. In his stead, Harrison Bryant, David Njoku and Stephen Carlson will man tight end for Cleveland.

Hooper (neck) isn't expected to play Monday night against the Ravens, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

If Hooper is indeed out Monday, Harrison Bryant, David Njoku and Stephen Carlson, in that order, would be next up for the Browns' Week 14 tight end snaps.

Hooper's neck injury is not believed to be serious, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.

Hooper sustained a neck injury during Thursday's practice and has not practiced in practices the two days since. He's officially listed as questionable for Monday's game against the Ravens, but it appears the injury will not sideline him for a significant period of time.

Hooper (neck) is listed as questionable on the Browns' final injury report ahead of Monday's matchup with the Ravens, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.

After practicing in full Thursday, Hooper was a non-participant Friday and added to the injury report with a neck issue as a result. He was once again absent from Saturday's practice and is now looking like a true game-time decision for Monday's game as a result. Should he ultimately have to sit out, Harrison Bryant would presumably be the next man up on the depth chart, but David Njoku could also see some work.

Hooper (neck) didn't practice Friday, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.

Hooper practiced fully Thursday, but his addition to the Browns' injury report Friday clouds his status for Monday night's game against the Ravens. If Hooper ends up limited or out, Harrison Bryant, David Njoku and Stephen Carlson would be next up for the team's tight end snaps.

Hooper caught two of two targets for 24 yards in Sunday's 41-35 win over Tennessee.

Hooper led the team's tight ends, which played a small role on a day when the Browns' offense was as wide open as it has been all season. Cleveland tight ends combined for three targets -- four, if one counts offensive lineman Kendall Lamm, who caught a touchdown as an eligible receiver. Hooper prepares for Week 14 against Baltimore, which ranks 21st in yards allowed (53.18 YPG) to opposing tight ends.

Hooper caught two of two targets for 13 yards and a touchdown catch in Sunday's 27-25 win over the Jaguars.

Hooper gave the Browns a brief lead at the end of the first half with a nine-yard touchdown reception, his second TD of the season. He's averaging just two catches and 19 yards in the three games since returning from an appendectomy, but Hooper stands out among the team's tight ends as they prepare for Week 13 against Tennessee. The Titans rank seventh with seven touchdowns allowed to opposing tight ends.

Hooper caught three of five targets for 33 yards in Sunday's 22-17 win over the Eagles.

Hooper once again led the position group in snaps and targets, but it rarely translates into something fantasy owners need. Despite being the leading tight end, he's finished under 50 yards in six of eight games with just one touchdown. As the Browns ride their running game during the second half of the season, targeting opportunities are dwindling for all pass catchers.

Hooper (appendix) caught one of two targets for 11 yards in Sunday's 10-7 win over the Texans.

Hooper was the only Browns tight end to record a target in his return from appendicitis, but none of Cleveland's pass-catchers got much going in this one, as quarterback Baker Mayfield threw for just 132 yards without a touchdown. The former Falcons tight end had recorded five catches in each of his previous three games played, so Hooper should pick things up in Week 11 against an Eagles team that has struggled to defend tight ends.

Hooper (appendix) will play this week against the Texans after missing two games, Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Hooper returned to practice during the preparations for Week 8's game against Las Vegas, but he was not ready to play that week. With another full week off -- Week 9 was Cleveland's bye week -- Hooper will resume his role as the Browns' leading tight end.

Hooper (appendix) returned to practice Wednesday, putting him on track to suit up when the Browns take the field again in Week 10 against Houston, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.

Coach Kevin Stefanski said Monday that he expects Hooper to suit up in Cleveland's next game, and with a week and a half to get back up to speed, it certainly appears that Hooper will play against the Texans barring a setback. Hooper's return will bump Harrison Bryant back down to a backup tight end role.

Coach Kevin Stefanski said Monday that Hooper "will definitely be back" for the Week 10 matchup against Houston, Zac Jackson of The Athletic reports.

Hooper has missed the past two games after undergoing an emergency appendectomy, but he's expected to return to practice following the team's Week 9 bye. Barring an unforeseen setback, he'll be given the green light against the Texans. Rookie Harrison Bryant carved out a substantial role during Hooper's absence and produced a 7-81-2 line over two games, but Hooper will operate as the No. 1 tight end upon return to the lineup. He could see more targets as well because Odell Beckham (torn ACL) is done for the year.

Hooper (appendix) won't play Sunday against the Raiders, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.

Hooper underwent an appendectomy last Friday, so it's not surprising that he's slated to miss his second straight. The Browns are on bye in Week 9, so Hooper seems to have a good shot to return to action for the team's Nov. 15 contest against the Texans. In his continued absence, Harrison Bryant and David Njoku will head the Browns' Week 8 tight end corps.

Hooper (appendix) wasn't spotted on the field during Thursday's practice, aMary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

According to Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal, Hooper wasn't even seen working on the side with the Browns' other injured players, suggesting the team isn't counting on him playing Sunday against the Raiders. After Hooper underwent an appendectomy Oct. 23, Harrison Bryant and David Njoku took on expanded roles at tight end in last weekend's win over the Bengals. Expect both to remain involved in the passing game versus Las Vegas if Hooper is inactive for the second straight week.

Hooper (appendix) isn't expected to play Sunday against the Raiders, Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com reports.

Hooper underwent an emergency appendectomy last Friday and missed Sunday's game against the Bengals as a result. The Browns are expected to let Hooper rest again Week 8, providing the tight end two more weeks to get back to full strength because of the team's Week 9 bye. Harrison Bryant seemed to operate as the top tight end in Hooper's absence, recording a 4-56-2 line against Cincinnati, while David Njoku played fewer snaps and produced a 2-20-1 line.

Coach Kevin Stefanski said Monday he doesn't know whether Hooper (appendix) will be available for Sunday's game against the Raiders, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.

Hooper sat out Cleveland's divisional win over the Bengals in Week 6 while recovering from an appendectomy, and it looks possible that he could be out until the team's bye in Week 9. Harrison Bryant (5-56-2) and David Njoku (2-20-1) both performed well with Hooper out, which could provide the Browns reason to be confident in letting the top tight end sit and get healthy.

Hooper (appendix) may be held out until after Cleveland's bye week in Week 9, Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Hooper underwent an appendectomy Friday and will miss Sunday's game against the Bengals. The tight end will likely miss next week's contest against the Raiders before the Browns' bye week Nov. 8. That will give Hooper three full weeks to recuperate.

Hooper is slated to undergo appendix surgery Friday and won't play Sunday against the Bengals, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.

With Hooper set to miss at least one game, the Browns will turn to Harrison Bryant and David Njoku to handle the team's pass-catching duties at tight end Sunday against Cincinnati and possibly in Week 8 against the Raiders.

Hooper (undisclosed) was not spotted during the media-access portion of Friday's practice, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.

It remains to be seen if the Week 7 status of Hooper, who has logged 22 catches for 205 yards and a TD in six games to date, is in any danger, but if he's limited or out Sunday against the Bengals, Harrison Bryant, David Njoku and Stephen Carlson would be next up for the team's tight end looks.

Hooper caught of five of his team-high six targets for 52 yards in Sunday's 38-7 loss to the Steelers.

Hooper topped the target chart for a second consecutive week and has 15 catches over the last three weeks. The Browns are utilizing the tight end more after a slow start. Over the last three weeks, Hooper is averaging five catches on 7.7 targets for 47.7 yards.

Hooper caught five of 10 targets for 57 yards in Sunday's 32-23 win over Indianapolis.

Hooper led the Browns in targets -- he has 17 targets the last two weeks -- and had a season-high in yards. Cleveland's usual script of a run-heavy offense was upended by the Colts' defense, which forced more production from the passing game. Hooper played 79 percent of the snaps, slightly down from recent weeks, with the return of David Njoku giving the offense a full complement of tight ends.

Hooper caught five of seven targets for 34 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 49-38 win over the Cowboys.

Hooper had his best day in a Browns' uniform, recording season highs in targets and catches while scoring his first touchdown. The Stanford graduate has been on the field more than any Cleveland receiver, so the opportunities are there for him. He has two red-zone targets this season, tying him for the team lead with Kareem Hunt and Odell Beckham. Week 5 takes the Browns back home for a date with the Colts, who have allowed just 11 catches (22 targets) over four games to opponents' tight ends.

Hooper caught three of four targets for 25 yards in Sunday's 34-20 win over Washington in Week 3.

Hooper posted season highs in receptions and yards, but he has not played a large fantasy role through three games despite playing 86 percent of the offensive snaps. The Browns ran a similar offense as in last week's win over the Bengals when they ran 60 percent of the time. That's been a winning formula, but a Week 4 date with Dallas, who rank seventh in points per game, could lead to a more wide open affair.

Hooper caught two of four targets for 22 yards in Thursday's 35-30 win over the Bengals in Week 2.

The Browns threw only 23 times, so targets were limited across the board, but Hooper had two more Thursday than he did in Week 1's loss to the Ravens. The Browns were able to run their offense, designed to lean heavily on the ground game and use tight ends. He was on the field nearly as much as quarterback Baker Mayfield, playing 57 of 58 snaps. Hooper hasn't found the end zone after two games, but was targeted once in the red zone Thursday.

With David Njoku (knee) landing on injured reserve, Hooper could see a greater share of targets and snaps Week 2 against the Bengals on Thursday.

Hooper was tops among Cleveland's tight ends with 56 plays (77 percent) but had just two targets in Sunday's loss to the Ravens. It was an unassuming debut for the tight end, who signed a four-year deal worth more than $10 million per during the offseason. More was expected from Hooper in Week 1, but the Browns' offense was in a deep hole early, which altered their game plan. If Cleveland can get into its offense, Hooper should make a more significant contribution.

Hooper caught two of two targets for 15 yards in Sunday's 38-6 loss to the Ravens in Week 1.

Hooper was the first player acquisition of new head coach Kevin Stefanski, a disciple of using multiple tight ends, which suggested a big role for him in the offense. But that did not materialize Sunday, which could be attributable to the Browns never getting a chance to work the offense as designed. They played mistake-filled football and fell behind by multiple scores in the second quarter. That led to quarterback Baker Mayfield forcing balls to Odell Beckham. In related news, fellow tight end David Njoku left the game with a knee injury, which could lead to more playing time for Hooper when the Browns face the Bengals in Week 2 on Thursday.

Hooper and quarterback Baker Mayfield connected in the red zone during a practice earlier this week, Nathan Zegura of the Browns' official site reports.

Hooper and fellow tight end Harrison Bryant have stood out thus far in training camp, which is not surprising. Mayfield has a history of using tight ends, going back to his college days. Hooper and Mayfield established chemistry during the offseason, and that continues as the prepare for Week 1 against the Ravens. Hooper has 146 catches and 10 touchdowns over the last two seasons.

Browns offensive coordinator said Hooper and quarterback Baker Mayfield have established an on-field rapport during training camp, Dan Labbe of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Hooper, who was the first free agent the Browns added during the offseason, spent some time with Mayfield before training camp in an effort to build chemistry. "The more they play together, obviously, the stronger that bond becomes," Van Pelt said. "It is those unwritten, the body language things that you can't really coach and teach, and when two guys get on that same page, and it is tough to stop." Hooper tops the tight end depth chart, and the position group as a whole should see an increase in targets in 2020.

Hooper is poised to sign a four-year, $42 million deal with the Browns, Albert Breer of TheMMQB.com reports.

Breer notes that the tight end is line to earn $23 million over the first two years of the deal, all of which is slated to be guaranteed. With Hooper set to join the mix, David Njoku's volume figures to take a hit. Hooper is coming off a 2019 campaign in which he set career highs in the catch (75), yards (787) and TD (six) categories, while playing 13 games. The money Cleveland plans to give him is a clear indication that he'll be a focal part of the team's passing attack in 2020.

Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports Hooper has agreed to contract terms with the Browns, while the tight end told Adam Schefter of ESPN that he's "definitely leaning Cleveland."

The first report presents Hooper to Cleveland as a sure thing, while Schefter's report suggests there's still a small degree of uncertainty. With Green Bay and Washington also rumored to have interest in Hooper, the Browns came out firing with a big offer at the very beginning of the "legal tampering" period that opened at 12 p.m. ET on Monday. This is a pretty strong signal that the new leadership in Cleveland doesn't hold David Njoku in high regard, though general manager Andrew Berry suggested in February that he'd likely pick up the tight end's fifth-year option for 2021.

Flacons general manager Thomas Dimitroff said Hooper will be allowed to test the open market, Jason Butt of The Athletic reports.

Dimitroff didn't explicitly rule out the possibility of re-signing the tight end, but it seems like a long shot if the team isn't even willing to use a franchise tag for approximately $10.7 million. Hooper should be able to reach that number for his average annual value on a long-term contract, coming off a breakout 2019 campaign with 787 yards in 13 games. The Falcons have a tough cap situation, but there are plenty of other teams with ample space and a need for a pass-catching TE.

Hooper (knee) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's matchup with the Panthers, D. Orlando Ledbetter of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

The tight end will return from a three-game absence, hoping to pick up where he left off in the midst of a breakout season. Hooper's presence pushes Jaeden Graham back to a reserve role, while Calvin Ridley and Russell Gage face more competition for targets (Julio Jones has also been cleared to return from an injury).

Coach Dan Quinn said Hooper (knee) will return for Sunday's game against the Panthers, Vaughn McClure of ESPN.com reports.

Hooper missed the past three games while recovering from an MCL sprain. He resumed practicing at the beginning of this week, so it's possible he's ready to take back his full workload. It isn't clear if the Falcons will list the tight end on their final Week 14 injury report.

Hooper (knee) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice.

The Falcons have listed Hooper as limited on both of their first two injury reports of Week 14, though because the team has a longer turnaround between games after last playing Thanksgiving Day, the tight end has actually practiced on three occasions, per Jason Butt of The Athletic. The trio of workouts gives Hooper a good shot at suiting up Sunday against the Panthers, though he would ideally turn in a full practice Friday in order for his fantasy managers to feel comfortable about his ability to handle a normal workload this weekend. Hooper has been sidelined for the Falcons' past three games due to an MCL sprain in his left knee.

Hooper (knee) was limited at practice Wednesday, Vaughn McClure of ESPN.com reports.

Hooper displayed progress last week by running on the side, but the tight end took the next step in his recovery from an MCL sprain in his left knee with some on-field reps. He'll aim to up the ante as the week goes on as he seeks his first game action since Week 10. Fellow tight ends Jaeden Graham (thigh) and Luke Stocker (back) also were limited Wednesday, so Carson Meier is the sole healthy member of the positional group at the moment.

Hooper (knee) took part in practice Wednesday, Jason Butt of The Athletic reports.

After running on a side field last week, Hooper is back at practice this week. While his activity level won't be known until the Falcons post their first Week 14 injury report later Wednesday, he's seemingly putting himself on a path to play for the first time since Week 10, when he initially suffered a sprained MCL.

Hooper (knee) is expected to resume practicing Monday, Vaughn McClure of ESPN.com reports.

Hooper was inactive for the past three games while recovering from an MCL sprain, missing each practice during that time. He did some running on a side field last week, and a return to practice Monday should give him a shot to make it back for Sunday's game against Carolina. Jaeden Graham has filled in capably as the Falcons' top pass-catching tight end, hauling in seven of eight targets for 117 yards and a touchdown over the past three weeks.

Hooper (knee) is ruled out for Thursday's contest against the Saints, D. Orlando Ledbetter of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Hooper will sit out a third straight game as he tends to a sprained MCL. The 25-year-old was initially handed a recovery timetable of one month after suffering a sprained MCL on Nov. 10, and he hasn't yet retaken the practice field. With Luke Stocker (back) listed as questionable, the Falcons could be forced to operate with only Jaeden Graham at tight end during Thursday's divisional contest.

Hooper (knee) didn't practice Tuesday, D. Orlando Ledbetter of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Instead of taking the practice field, Hooper worked with the training staff on the side, per Vaughn McClure of ESPN.com. With Hooper tending to a sprained MCL and Luke Stocker logging DNPs this week due to a back injury, Jaeden Graham is the only healthy tight end on the Falcons' 53-man roster at the moment.

Hooper (knee) worked on a side field with the Falcons' training staff during Tuesday's practice, Vaughn McClure of ESPN.com reports.

Listed as a non-participant on Monday's estimated injury report, Hooper seems poised to log a DNP for a second straight day. Until his sprained MCL wanes enough for him to get on the practice field, he'll yield reps to Jaeden Graham, who is the sole healthy TE on the roster with Luke Stocker (back) also in recovery mode.

Hooper (knee) is listed as a non-participant on Monday's practice estimate, D. Orlando Ledbetter of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Hooper hasn't practiced since sustaining an MCL sprain in Week 10. It's unlikely he's able to make enough progress to suit up Thursday against the Saints. If that's the case, Jaeden Graham -- who logged a 66-percent snap share Week 12 -- could be in line for an even larger workload if Luke Stocker (back) can't shake his injury in time.

Hooper (knee) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against Tampa Bay, Vaughn McClure of ESPN.com reports.

An early report suggested Hooper would be out for about a month with an MCL sprain, and his absence now has been confirmed for a second straight week, with the tight end still unable to practice. Jaeden Graham and Luke Stocker figure to share Week 12 snaps, while Hooper's usual target workload could be directed toward the team's wide receivers.

Hooper (knee) was not present for Friday's practice, Vaughn McClure of ESPN.com reports.

Hooper's status continues to be evaluated on a day-to-day basis, but a report last week indicated he would likely be out a month as a result of his injury, so it should not come as much surprise that he is still unable to practice. Hooper has not been ruled out for Week 12 just yet, but it seems likely he will miss a second straight game.

Hooper (knee) was held out of practice Thursday, D. Orlando Ledbetter of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Despite failing to take the field yet this week, Hooper has one more opportunity to do so before the Falcons perhaps make a decision on his Week 12 availability. Another absence from Hooper on Sunday against the Bucs would thrust Jaeden Graham and Luke Stocker into increased roles for a second straight game.

Hooper (knee) wasn't seen at the part of Thursday's practice open to the media, Vaughn McClure of ESPN.com reports.

On Monday, coach Dan Quinn said Hooper wouldn't practice Wednesday, which came to pass, but there was a chance the tight end would take the field Thursday and/or Friday. The Falcons have yet to reveal if Hooper indeed logged another DNP, but it wouldn't surprise as he tends to a sprained MCL for a second consecutive week. The team will reveal his activity level when Thursday's practice report is posted.

Coach Dan Quinn said that Hooper (knee) won't participate in the Falcons' first practice of the week Wednesday, Vaughn McClure of ESPN.com reports.

Quinn indicated Hooper hasn't been ruled out from practicing Thursday or Friday, as the team will continue to evaluate the tight end throughout the week before determining his status for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers. While Hooper sat out the Week 11 win over the Panthers with the sprained knee, Luke Stocker started at tight end and played 43 of the 65 offensive snaps (66 percent), but didn't draw a target. Meanwhile, backup Jaeden Graham acted as the pass-catching specialist at the position, playing only 34 snaps but hauling in both of his targets for 23 yards.

Hooper (knee) will not play in Sunday's game against the Panthers, Vaughn McClure of ESPN.com reports.

Early reports suggested Hooper could be out for a month while he recovers from an MCL sprain. Coach Dan Quinn didn't agree with the timeline, but he acknowledged Friday that the tight end will miss at least one game. Given that he didn't practice at all this week, Hooper will face a challenge to make it back for Week 12 against Tampa Bay. In the meantime, the Falcons are left with Jaeden Graham and Luke Stocker at tight end.

Hooper (knee) was not spotted at Friday's practice, according to D. Orlando Ledbetter of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Hooper's absence should not come as a surprise to fantasy players, given that head coach Dan Quinn said he was a "longshot" to play in Week 11 and it was reported he could miss a month with his injury.

Hooper (knee) wasn't spotted at Thursday's practice, D. Orlando Ledbetter of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Considered a "longshot" to suit up Sunday in Carolina by coach Dan Quinn, Hooper predictably is focusing on rehab of his sprained MCL rather than on-field drills. Back-to-back absences seem to indicate Hooper is trending toward inactive status this weekend, but the Falcons have yet to make an official ruling on the fourth-year tight end. Behind Hooper, Jaeden Graham and Luke Stocker (knee) occupy the next two spots on the depth chart.

Coach Dan Quinn called Hooper (knee) a "long shot" to play Sunday at Carolina, Will McFadden of the Falcons' official site reports.

Hooper emerged from the Week 10 win at New Orleans with a sprained MCL, but his timetable for a return remains undetermined. On Wednesday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported Hooper is expected to be out approximately one month. When informed of Rapoport's report, Quinn refuted it, stating "sometimes with injuries [the recovery] can be faster, so you don't want to pigeonhole a player into a [timeline to return]." Considering the nature of his injury, Hooper seems unlikely to practice this week, but his status bears watching until he's officially ruled out for game action.

Hooper (knee) is expected to remain sidelined roughly a month due to a sprained MCL, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Hooper's absence will be a notable blow to Atlanta's offense, given that he's tied with Travis Kelce to lead the league in catches at his position (56) and accounts for the second-most receiving yards (608) on the Falcons' offense, trailing only Julio Jones. Based on this expected four-week recovery timetable, Hooper's first chance to retake the field could come Dec. 15 versus the 49ers. In the meantime, expect depth tight ends Luke Stocker and Jaeden Graham to play expanded roles on offense.