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NFL: What are the benefits to signing DeAndre Hopkins?

By Loyal Ricks Jr

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - OCTOBER 30: DeAndre Hopkins #10 of the Arizona Cardinals catches the ball for a touchdown as Harrison Smith #22 of the Minnesota Vikings defends during the second quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium on October 30, 2022 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - OCTOBER 30: DeAndre Hopkins #10 of the Arizona Cardinals catches the ball for a touchdown as Harrison Smith #22 of the Minnesota Vikings defends during the second quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium on October 30, 2022 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images) /
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It’s impossible to win in the NFL without scoring points. We’re in an era where offenses control the outcome. Quarterbacks connect with receivers for big plays now more than ever. It forces defenses to adapt while offenses continue to innovate.

The demand for quality receivers is at an all-time high. Front offices are searching for reliable X-Factors that can stretch the field. Acquiring DeAndre Hopkins from the free agency pool would be great for franchises searching for a playmaker. He’s made a name for himself in the league, but can he still produce on the gridiron?

NFL: Arizona Cardinals part ways with their veteran receiver

On April 26, the Cardinals announced their decision to cut their primary receiver. It was time to part ways with the five-time Pro-Bowler. DeAndre Hopkins joined the franchise in 2020 after seven seasons with the Houston Texans. Injuries limited the veteran’s time on the field, but he still contributed to the squad’s success. Since then, Hopkins has accumulated 2,696 yards and 17 touchdowns while averaging 12.3 yards per catch.

Monti Ossenfort expressed his desire to trade Hopkins before the parties split. Arizona’s front office entertained offers from other franchisees, but failed to solidify a deal. Negotiating terms for a veteran receiver was tough. Age and production determine value, which could differ depending on perspective.

Hopkins hit the free agent market the following Tuesday. An urge to find a new home led to the scheduling of visits with multiple NFL franchises. A meeting with Mike Vrabel and the Titans was the first stop on the tour list. Vrabel said that he thinks the visit went well, and the franchise will continue to engage in the market. “We’ll continue to look at where we’re at as we add free agents,” Vrabel reported. “As with everything else, we’ll follow up.”

NFL: Signing DeAndre Hopkins is a steal for any franchise

DeAndre Hopkins is a free-agent offensive coordinator who would love to add to the roster. He has enough veteran experience and passion to create positive morale in the locker room. His versatility is also a plus for spread offenses that need the touch of a possession receiver. In 2022, Hopkins lined up in the slot in 27.3% of his snaps. He caught 68.8% of his passes while creating mismatches against smaller defensive backs and linebackers.

We’ve seen Hopkins torch defenders throughout his career. He’s maintained the 1,000-yard receiving benchmark for 60% of his career. His numbers declined due to miss time, but he is still a threat to opposing defenses.

Acquiring DeAndre Hopkins would be a smart move for franchises with offensive concerns. He’s a reliable option in the passing game that can still perform at a professional level. The New England Patriots have also shown interest in the former Cardinal this off-season. I wouldn’t be surprised if we see Hopkins find a home within the next two weeks.

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