Most Likely Destinations for Austin Hooper in Free Agency

Austin Hooper enjoyed a career year in 2019, as the 25-year-old tight end racked up 75 receptions, 787 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns. The cap-strapped Atlanta Falcons could struggle to retain Hooper this offseason, though, as the team has the third-lowest cap space in the NFL

Atlanta will reportedly let Hooper test the open market this offseason, and it's not hard to imagine a TE-needy team making an offer Hooper's camp can't refuse. With that in mind, here are three of the most likely destinations for Hooper in free agency.

1. New England Patriots

Tom Brady and the Patriots could be looking to upgrade at tight end, if the quarterback re-signs with New England. / Maddie Meyer/Getty Images

The team with arguably the most glaring need at the position, the New England Patriots are a natural destination for Hooper. With Tom Brady's future appearing more uncertain than ever, adding Hooper could be a great way to incentivize Brady to return. Considering no tight end on the team eclipsed even 175 receiving yards in 2019, New England will likely make tight end a priority this offseason.

2. Buffalo Bills

Josh Allen and the Bills could be looking to add a tight end in free agency. / Tim Warner/Getty Images

With the fourth-most available cap space in the NFL, the Buffalo Bills can afford to make a couple splashy signings. Hooper would add another big-bodied possession receiver for Josh Allen to target, and he'd create a dangerous TE duo with Dawson Knox, who is coming off a nice rookie campaign.

3. Arizona Cardinals

Kyler Murray's Arizona Cardinals would be an interesting landing spot for Hooper this offseason. / Stephen Brashear/Getty Images

With the ascendance of Kyler Murray, the Arizona Cardinals are quickly becoming one of the NFL's most interesting young teams. Entering free agency with more than $50 million in available space, the Cardinals can afford to sign Hooper and have a clear need at the position. No tight end on the team reached even 250 receiving yards in 2019, and Hooper would instantly give Murray a much-needed safety blanket to target next season.

Join FanDuel Sportsbook Today. New users get a risk-free bet up to $500. Join Now.

Max Staley is not a FanDuel employee. In addition to providing DFS gameplay advice, Max Staley also participates in DFS contests on FanDuel using his personal account, username mstaley1212. While the strategies and player selections recommended in his articles are his personal views, he may deploy different strategies and player selections when entering contests with his personal account. The views expressed in their articles are the author's alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of FanDuel.