Austin Hooper was a trusted option for Drake Maye during his rookie NFL season.
And the New England Patriots made sure to keep Hooper around for a second season by not letting the veteran tight end hit free agency.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Sunday night that Hooper agreed to a one-year deal worth $5 million to return to the Patriots. Schefter noted that Hooper’s deal has a max value of $7 million.
Hooper was a reliable pass-catching target in his first season with the Patriots in 2024. Hooper finished third on the team with 45 receptions — only trailing Hunter Henry and DeMario Douglas — to go along with 476 yards receiving.