The Panthers have another roster hole to fill at tight end thanks to the release of long-time veteran Greg Olsen, who has now signed with the Seahawks. Fortunately, there are some good players at the position who are about to hit the market next month.
For example, we learned today from Ian Rapoport at NFL Network that the Falcons plan to let both Austin Hooper and De’Vondre Campbell test free agency. Let’s take a closer look at Hooper, who should be considered the top tight end on the board this year.
Career stats:
Atlanta picked Hooper in the third round of the 2016 NFL draft. His production has steadily increased every season since. In 59 games, Hooper has been targeted 277 times. He’s caught an impressive 214 of them (77.3% catch rate), totaling 2,244 receiving yards and 16 touchdowns. He has been a legitimate Pro Bowler each of the last two years.
Pros:
Carolina will likely draft or sign a tight end at some point this offseason. Hooper is the only one who would qualify as a guaranteed upgrade, though. Like Olsen, Hooper has sticky hands and he’s at least as athletic and explosive now as No. 88 was in his prime. He’s also reliable. In his career, Hooper has only dropped five passes and has never fumbled. He’s also a superb option in the end zone and is still in his prime at just 25 years old.
Cons:
Hooper has missed a handful of games here and there (five games in four years) but hasn’t suffered a significant injury yet. Once again, the potential downside for the Panthers here is his price-tag, which will be considerable. While tight end should be addressed, there are several other positions that need to be prioritized first. Signing Hooper might be a luxury they simply can’t afford.
Probability: Low
As the best tight end on the market, adding Hooper won’t come cheap for the Panthers or anybody else. General manager Marty Hurney can probably sign someone like Eric Ebron or perhaps Hunter Henry for less.
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