There’s no denying that Austin Hooper is a clear fan favorite in New England, but he’s only on a one-year deal. So with that, the Patriots could need an additional tight end next season.
And there’s a very talented young prospect who might be available.
The Baltimore Ravens signed veteran Mark Andrews to a 3-year, $39.3 million contract extension, and with that, many think that it signals the end of 25-year-old tight end Isaiah Likely‘s time with the team.
Likely was sidelined at the beginning of the season after fracturing his foot in training camp, having to miss the first three games. However, since he has returned, he has only recorded 18 receptions for 223 yards with no touchdowns.
But he has shown what he’s capable of, having recorded 42 receptions for 477 yards and 6 touchdowns during the 2024 season. Spotrac projects a 4-year, $40 million market value; that’s something the Patriots could certainly do with their remaining cap space.
Hunter Henry Is Under Contract Through 2026
GettyNew England Patriots TE Hunter Henry
Hunter Henry has become a staple of the Patriots since he signed with the team in 2021, and with that, he is also one of Drake Maye’s closest friends and favorite targets. The tight end is in his 10th NFL season and currently is second on the team in receptions (41) and receiving yards (537), as well as being tied for the lead in receiving touchdowns (5).
He recently earned high praise from offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, who was asked about the tight end’s impact during a November press conference.
“There’s no shortage of ways to describe this,” McDaniels said. “He’s an incredible teammate. He’s one of our most respected workers on our team. Without question, every day, ready to go, takes good care of his body, is able to go out there and rep things at full speed. After so many years of being in the league, I think he’s continuing to get better at things, which is an incredible example for our younger players. He’s dependable, he studies, he’s well prepared.”
“I mean, there’s just anything you ask him to do, whether it’s for him to have success statistically or someone else, doesn’t make any difference. He’s going to do it to the best of his ability to try to help the team win,” he added. “And I think his only goal is for us to win at the end of the day. One of the most unselfish people I’ve ever been around. Great leader, great teammate, incredibly fortunate to have a chance to coach him.”
Hunter Henry Named Patriots’ Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year nominee
GettyPatriots TE Hunter Henry
On Thursday, the NFL revealed the 32 representatives from each team who were nominated for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award, and it is Henry who was honored for his efforts.
“We are incredibly proud to have Hunter Henry represent the Patriots as our Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee,” Patriots Chairman and CEO Robert Kraft said in a statement. “Hunter embodies the values we cherish most; compassion, integrity, and a commitment to serving others. From his global advocacy with the International Justice Mission to his dedication to uplifting families and children here in New England, Hunter has used his platform to make a profound impact. His leadership on the field is matched only by his generosity off it, and we are honored to celebrate him for the difference he continues to make in so many lives. He embodies everything the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award represents.”
The award will be given out during NFL Honors on February 5th.
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