:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66507639/1196549409.jpg.0.jpg)
The Cleveland Browns have reportedly reached a deal with free agent tight end Austin Hooper.
While the terms of the contract cannot be made official until Wednesday at 4 p.m., the Browns are reportedly giving Hooper a four-year deal with $23 million in guaranteed money over the first two years, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport:
Austin Hooper has agreed to terms on a 4-year deal with the Cleveland Browns that will re-set the TE market in guaranteed money and APY. Hooper will make $23 million, all guaranteed, over the first 2 seasons, and $10.5M per year over 4. https://t.co/nUMAjnGuZx
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 16, 2020
Originally a third-round selection by the Atlanta Falcons in the 2016 NFL Draft, Hooper had 214 receptions for 2,244 yards and 16 touchdowns in his four seasons with the Falcons. He never started more than 10 games in a single season with Atlanta, but has only missed five games due to injury in his career, and made the Pro Bowl after the 2018 and 2019 seasons.
His best season was last year, as he finished with 75 receptions, 787 yards and six touchdowns despite missing three games with a sprained MCL.
If the Browns can close the deal with Hooper, he will join David Njoku in what could develop into a productive position for the Browns, especially given the fact that head coach Kevin Stefanski prefers to use two tight ends in his offense on a regular basis.