Austin Hooper, star tight end of the New England Patriots, shocked the NFL when he confirmed signing a future contract with the Cleveland Browns. This decision came after Hooper publicly admitted that the Patriots no longer consider him part of their long-term plans. This was a huge shock right before the Conference Championship, as Hooper is playing in the final year of his one-year, $5 million deal with the Pats.
Hooper explained: “I’ve given everything to the Patriots, but with the team’s rebuilding plans, I’ve realized there’s no place for me in the future. It’s time for a change to continue growing, and Cleveland has provided that opportunity.” Despite a solid season with over 500 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns, Hooper was no longer part of the Patriots’ long-term plans under head coach Mike Vrabel.
The Patriots were not obligated to keep Hooper, who will turn 31 at the end of the season. With the team focusing on rebuilding, they have prioritized developing younger players, including younger free agent contracts and draft picks for the tight end position. Hooper was simply a backup for Hunter Henry, the team’s TE1, who is still under contract.
The team has decided not to extend Hooper’s contract, and sources emphasize that the Patriots will save cap space (~$46-60 million for 2026) to extend young talents like Drake Maye and Rhamondre Stevenson. Hooper was not listed among the “must-re-sign” players for the Pats, like K’Lavon Chaisson or Jaylinn Hawkins.
With his move to Cleveland, where he previously played at a high level in 2020-2021, Hooper will look to regain his top form. The Browns need depth at tight end, as David Njoku (top FA 2026) is at high risk of leaving or being traded. The familiarity with the Browns’ system is a major factor in Hooper’s decision to return there.