The 4-13 Patriots didn't have much to celebrate in 2024, particularly offensively. To be fair to the tight end room, though, Hunter Henry and Austin Hooper pieced together a respectable year. Hooper came in at 43rd according to PFF's latest rankings article, not a surprise given his low fantasy value, but 21st-ranked Henry led the team in receiving yards with 674, and was joint first in catches with 66.
While he isn't thought of as highly as other players in the fantasy space, Henry has had a productive career. He has excellent feel and very sound hands, and has proven to be a red zone threat during his time with the Patriots.
Unfortunately, these aren't necessarily rewarded in the fantasy space.
Hunter Henry should be a sound fantasy option for the 2025 NFL season
Regardless of what PFF might say, Henry isn't a bad option for a tight end or FLEX spot on fantasy rosters in 2025. As evidenced by his statistics, he was a focal point in 2024 for a struggling unit. The team added Stefon Diggs, Mack Hollins, and Kyle Williams to their group of pass catchers, which will pull back from the focus on Henry.
However, with the ascension of Drake Maye in year two, I'd expect he'll have more passing attempts and more support from his line, given its additions. The playmakers out wide could further create checkdown opportunities for Henry, which are particularly valuable in PPR leagues.
The return of Josh McDaniels as an OC should also benefit Henry. During their single season together in 2021, he had 50 catches for 603 yards, but more importantly, he finished with nine touchdowns.
If the Patriots can re-establish the QB-TE link McDaniels had with Mac Jones and Henry, he could ascend to the TE7 status he held in 2021. That's exactly what the team and fans are hoping for from the tight end, as he had his best season of his career with McDaniels in the last year they made the playoffs.