The Cleveland Browns made the first splash of NFL free agency by agreeing to a deal with former Atlanta Falcons tight end Austin Hooper. The four-year, $44 million deal he signed made him the high-paid tight end in NFL history.
The Hooper signing was just one of a variety of moves the Browns made this offseason. They swapped out Freddie Kitchens with Kevin Stefanski at head coach and made improvements to the offensive line by signing Jack Conklin and drafted Jedrick Wills Jr.
There was a real need for the Browns to bolster their talent at the tight end position. Last season, this position accounted for just 41 receptions and 497 yards (h/t ESPN). A lot of that had to do with David Njoku appearing in four games, but regardless, the position group underwhelming.
During the 2019 season, Hooper recorded 75 receptions resulting in 787 yards and six touchdowns. Let’s not forget, he managed to achieve this level of production despite being sidelined for three games, resulting in career-high figures across the board.
With that being said, let’s take a look at why fans should be excited about Browns tight end Austin Hooper during the 2020 NFL season.
