Most of the conversation about the Patriots' needs in free agency this year has centered on three positions: offensive guard, wide receiver, and linebacker. And while those are likely to be their priorities, other groups need some help, particularly after some of their free agents have already signed with other teams.
Perhaps one of the most under-the-radar positions that needs a lot of help is tight end, as Hunter Henry is the leading name of the group. There was some speculation that Austin Hooper would return for another season, given his connection to Mike Vrabel. But he signed with the Falcons again on Monday.
That creates an even bigger hole on the offense that the team will need to deal with, and they have already seen a long list of top free agent candidates sign with new teams.
Most of them were considered to be top targets for Mike Vrabel, like Isaiah Likely and Cade Otton, but now they'll have to consider other players to fill the need, on top of probably drafting a high performer next month.
Austin Hooper's departure proves the Patriots need to prioritize finding their next tight end
Although Hooper wasn't a significant contributor for the Patriots during his two-year stint, he was still someone they could call on in key moments, and he proved to be valuable because of it.
He paired well with Henry, who has been the go-to tight end for every quarterback the Patriots have put under center since he joined the team in 2021, and now they'll have to find a new guy to work with him in 2026 and beyond.
Because tight ends also help on the offensive line, something the Patriots utilized often throughout last season, it's even more crucial they find an adequate replacement for Hooper. They do appear interested in bringing back Jack Westover, and they've already signed a new fullback, so they've made progress.
But they also need to find a player who can succeed Henry, likely a rookie, whenever that time might be. He could learn from the veteran and slide into the main tight end role, making drafting one seem a bit more appealing.
Regardless of what they end up doing, we just know they need to do something, or the offense will take a significant step back in 2026.