The Atlanta Falcons would love to retain Austin Hooper this offseason. But there are going to be other teams driving up his price in free agency. Before Hooper tests the open market, he welcomes the interest he'll be receiving in free agency.

“It definitely feels good to know that there's interest out there for me,” Hooper told ESPN. “I've worked hard over my four years in Atlanta to set myself up to be in a position like this, so I'm grateful that stuff like that is coming out.”

Since being drafted by the Falcons in 2016, Hooper has evolved into one of the best tight ends in the NFL. Hooper was able to corral a career-best 75 receptions, 787 yards, and six touchdowns in 2019.

Additionally, Hooper has been named to two consecutive Pro Bowls with the Falcons to reward him for his impressive play on the field. Due to teams wanting to add pass-catching tight ends, Hooper figures to see a wide-ranging market in free agency.

RECOMMENDED (Article Continues Below)
Falcons, Arthur Blank, Terry Fontenot, Michael Penix Jr., Falcons draft

Jackson Stone ¡

Photo: Kirk Cousins and Michael Penix Jr beside each other in action in Falcons jerseys

Quinn Allen ¡

Cowboys Micah Parsons with emoji eyes looking at Falcons Michael Penix

Dan Fappiano ¡

Thus far, the Green Bay Packers, Chicago Bears, and Washington Redskins have been listed as feasible landing spots. However, there are undoubtedly more teams that will express interest in the 25-year-old tight end.

Hooper had to earn a starting job with the Falcons as a third-round draft pick. Now, he'll reap the benefits of his hard work and production over the past four seasons. Whether the Falcons are the team to somehow pay Hooper the salary he desires remains to be seen.