Patriots Urged to Keep Surprising Playmaker

Dec 15, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; New England Patriots tight end Austin Hooper (81) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesThe New England Patriots had probably the worst set of weapons in football this past season, which makes what rookie quarterback Drake Maye achieved all the more impressive.

However, there was actually one position in which the Patriots were pretty solid in 2024: tight end.

Hunter Henry led the way with 66 receptions for 674 yards and a couple of touchdowns, representing Maye's favorite target throughout the year.

But then there was backup tight end Austin Hooper, who caught 45…