Bears Rumors: Austin Hooper a Free-Agent Target for Chicago

The Chicago Bears are reportedly "planning to pursue" Pro Bowl tight end Austin Hooper when NFL free agency begins March 18.

Jason Lieser of the Chicago Sun-Times reported Thursday the Bears are a "long shot" to land Hooper despite their interest because of limited salary-cap space and bidding that may reach $12 million per year.

Chicago ranks 23rd in available cap room for the new league year at $26.3 million, according to Spotrac.

The front office has several other needs to address, led by the offensive line and defensive backfield, that could supersede their pursuit of Hooper early in free agency.

Atlanta Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff confirmed Tuesday at the NFL Scouting Combine the team was going to let Hooper hit the open market.

Hooper, who spent the first four years of his pro career with the Falcons, responded to Instagram questions about his future following Dimitroff's comments.

He wrote in one reply: "lol they ain't offer me."

And: "Told me to hit the road lol not up to me."

Hooper is coming off a terrific 2019 season, where he set career-high totals in receptions (75), receiving yards (787) and touchdowns (six) despite playing a career-low 13 games.

The 25-year-old Stanford product has earned two straight Pro Bowl selections and will be one of the most coveted free agents available this offseason at a shallow position.

He could also generate interest from the Green Bay Packers, New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers, who lead the group of other teams that will be looking to upgrade at the position.