DeAndre Hopkins, the three-time All-Pro wide receiver, is an unrestricted free agent after being released by the Arizona Cardinals. Despite battling injuries and a suspension for PEDs in recent years, Hopkins is still considered one of the top pass-catchers in the NFL, making this an exciting development for teams in need of a standout receiver.
Several teams are being touted as potential landing spots for Hopkins. His preferences could play a big role, as he has previously expressed on the I AM ATHLETE podcast a desire to play with Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills, Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles, Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs, Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens, and Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers.
Teams That Are Rumored To Want Hopkins
There are 7 teams that have the highest likelihood to sign DeAndre Hopkins based on the current NFL rumor mill.
- New York Giants
- Kansas City Chiefs
- New England Patriots
- San Francisco 49ers
- Baltimore Ravens
- Philadelphia Eagles
- Buffalo Bills
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Is it within the realm of possibility for the New York Giants to bring DeAndre Hopkins on board?
The New York Giants, despite not having a quarterback on Hopkins’ preferred list, have a clear need for a top-level receiver. Hopkins could join Saquon Barkley and Darren Waller to enhance the Giants’ offensive threat.
The Giants could theoretically sign DeAndre Hopkins. However, their current cap space stands at approximately $4.6 million, which is likely insufficient to cover Hopkins’ potential contract, given his stature in the league. They would likely need to make additional moves to create the necessary cap space.
Could the Kansas City Chiefs consider adding DeAndre Hopkins to their roster?
Kansas City Chiefs could benefit from Hopkins’ addition as they need a receiver to take pressure off Travis Kelce. Playing alongside Patrick Mahomes could also be a strong pull for Hopkins.
The Chiefs, similar to the Giants, have the potential to sign DeAndre Hopkins. Yet, their current cap space is even lower, standing at approximately $1.1 million. This would likely necessitate other roster or contract adjustments to accommodate Hopkins’ probable contract demands.
Is it feasible for the New England Patriots to secure DeAndre Hopkins’ services?
The New England Patriots, with Bill O’Brien as their offensive coordinator, could offer Hopkins a similar offensive setup to what he thrived in with the Houston Texans. Despite past disagreements with O’Brien, they are speculated to be able to work together again.
The Pats have a bit more breathing room compared to the Giants and Chiefs, with a cap space of approximately $12.7 million. This might make it feasible to sign Hopkins, although it would still represent a significant investment and could limit their ability to make other roster moves.
Could DeAndre Hopkins potentially find a new home with the San Francisco 49ers?
The San Francisco 49ers, possessing an impressive offensive lineup including Christian McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel, George Kittle, and Brandon Aiyuk, could be an attractive choice for Hopkins.
The 9ers are in a similar position to the Patriots, with approximately $11.9 million in cap space. This could potentially allow them to sign Hopkins, but it would also be a major commitment and could affect their ability to address other needs on the roster
Could the Baltimore Ravens potentially ink a deal with DeAndre Hopkins?
The Baltimore Ravens, with Lamar Jackson as QB and the recent addition of Odell Beckham Jr., might offer Hopkins an appealing opportunity. Similarly, the Cleveland Browns, with QB Deshaun Watson who Hopkins had a successful stint, could be a viable landing spot.
The Ravens have a cap space of about $12.4 million, which might be sufficient to sign Hopkins, especially if there’s more money on the backend or if they make some more room. He’ll likely need close to $25 million.
Could the Philadelphia Eagles make a move to acquire DeAndre Hopkins?
The defending NFC champions, Philadelphia Eagles, could also be in the mix, offering Jalen Hurts as a QB option and a top-five defense. The New York Jets with Aaron Rodgers at the helm, and the Dallas Cowboys, despite financial hurdles, may also be attractive destinations for Hopkins.
The Eagles have a cap space of approximately $12.7 million, which could potentially be enough to sign Hopkins. However, similar to other teams, this would represent a major financial commitment and could restrict their ability to make other roster moves.
Is it within the Buffalo Bills’ capacity to sign DeAndre Hopkins?
Lastly, the Buffalo Bills, boasting one of the NFL’s most dominant teams over the last three regular seasons, could provide Hopkins an immediate chance to contend for a Super Bowl.
The Buffalo Bills have a relatively low cap space of around $1.6 million, which would likely make it very difficult to sign a high-profile player like Hopkins without making additional moves to free up cap space
Remember, NFL Rumors Are Just Rumors
These are the potential fits and rumors floating around the NFL rumor mill. However, the final decision lies with Hopkins and the teams involved. It’s unclear at this point whether Hopkins has started negotiations with any team, or if he has a clear preference. A final decision is expected to come soon as the NFL offseason progresses.
With Hopkins out of Arizona, is Kyler Murray next?
