Hesse played 11 offensive snaps but didn't record any counting stats during Sunday's 30-20 loss to the Saints.
Analysis: Hesse out-snapped fellow backup tight end Lee Smith eleven to four, but neither were a factor in the passing game. Hesse finished the 2021 campaign with five catches (six targets) for 43 yards across eight appearances. However, the majority of that production -- three catches for 31 yards -- came in Week 17, when he was filling in for Hayden Hurst -- who was out due to COVID-19 protocols. Hesse is under contract for the 2022 season, while Smith and Hurst are not, so if the Falcons don't add any tight ends during the offseason, Hesse could head into next season as the primary backup to Kyle Pitts.
Parker Hesse Signed to Falcons' active roster
Hesse was signed to the Falcons' active roster Tuesday, Tori McElhaney of the team's official website reports.
Analysis: The tight end was called up from the practice squad in Week 17 against the Bills and made three catches for 31 yards in the loss. Hesse appears to have impressed with his performance, securing a spot on the active roster for the Falcons' season finale against the Saints next weekend. With Hayden Hurst (illness) on the COVID list and Kyle Pitts (hamstring) banged up, the 26-year-old may be in for a substantial role in Week 18.
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