What to do with Austin Hooper in Week 17 of the fantasy football playoffs

Cleveland Browns tight end Austin Hooper saw a ton of passes go his way last weekend out of necessity, but that should not be the expectation this weekend with unusual circumstances in Week 16. If you’re trying to figure out what to do with Hooper on Sunday, let’s take a closer look.

Fantasy Football analysis: Browns TE Austin Hooper

Cleveland placed its top four wide receivers on the COVID-19 list the day before last weekend’s game, so while the passing game wasn’t very effective, Baker Mayfield went Hooper’s way a ton. He finished with 15 targets, catching seven passes for 71 yards in a loss to the New York Jets.

With all the wide receivers back, there’s no reason to expect Hooper will come close to that number of passes thrown his way. However, Cleveland has every reason to play its best as it can clinch a playoff spot with a victory. The Browns will go up against the Pittsburgh Steelers, which do not have much to play for and are going to be resting starters.

Fantasy Start/Sit Recommendation

Hooper is a No. 2 tight end for fantasy purposes in the final weekend of the regular season.