Hours out from the start of NFL free agency, the Patriots have re-signed veteran tight end Austin Hooper, a source confirmed to the Herald.
Hooper was scheduled to hit the open market before he agreed to return on a reported 1-year, $5 million deal with a maximum value of $7 million. ESPN first reported the terms.
Hooper had 45 catches for 476 yards and three touchdowns last season, his first in New England. He played more than half of the team’s offensive snaps as the No. 2 tight end behind longtime starter Hunter Henry. The 30-year-old signed with the Patriots last year as a free agent and produced as a solid pass-catcher and run-blocker.
Hooper’s return solidifies the tight end position, which the team could continue to target in the draft. Henry is entering the second season of a three-year deal he signed last offseason.
The Patriots’ top remaining internal free agents include defensive back Jonathan Jones, defensive linemen Deatrich Wise and quarterback Jacoby Brissett.
Earlier Sunday, the Pats signed ex-Titans outside linebacker Harold Landry to a reported 3-year contract. Landry was released earlier this year in Tennessee, where he was originally drafted under new Patriots coach Mike Vrabel.
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