Las Vegas Raiders Sign Two-Time Pro Bowl Tight End

It appears the Las Vegas Raiders have found Darren Waller's replacement.

The Las Vegas Raiders have signed former Tennessee Titans tight end Austin Hooper to a one-year contract worth $2.75 million, with the potential to reach $3.5 million through incentives.

Officially official 🏴‍☠️

We have signed unrestricted free agent TE Austin Hooper » https://t.co/LCHb7LrzAl pic.twitter.com/yFw8ghI4UN

— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) March 22, 2023

Hooper will join another free-agent addition, O.J. Howard, to lead the Raiders' tight end group.

Hooper had a decent season with the Titans, with 41 receptions for 444 yards and two touchdowns in 17 games.

However, his limited blocking ability did not fit well with Chig Okonkwo, the emerging rookie at the position, resulting in the Titans needing a new player to fill the role.

One-year deal for $2.75m with upside to $3.5m for the two-time Pro Bowler Austin Hooper to the #Raiders. https://t.co/oCqUXndf2W

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 22, 2023

The Titans still have several options in free agency and the upcoming NFL Draft, but finding a player whose skillset complements Okonkwo's will be a challenge as the team needs a reliable blocker at the position.

With Darren Waller traded to the Giants and Foster Moreau still unsigned, Hooper is expected to receive a significant number of targets from quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo in the upcoming season.

The Raiders will likely utilize Hooper more as a blocker, while Howard runs routes.

Entering his eighth NFL season, the 28-year-old two-time Pro Bowler has amassed 339 receptions for 3,468 yards (10.2 avg) and 25 touchdowns across 105 games played. Photo Credit: George Walker IV / USA TODAY NETWORK