DeAndre Hopkins is considering his options these days. Apparently that extends beyond the field of play.
Hopkins isn't exactly focused on life after football. But a visit to the New England Patriots as they settle into training camp life for the next several weeks has introduced a potential new chapter in Hopkins' career. Per beat reporter Mike Reiss, Hopkins is spending time with the Pats while considering "the possibility of a coaching career."
Hopkins' visit to New England is interesting for a number of reasons, but it begins with his relationship with Pats head coach Mike Vrabel. Both parties were employed by the Tennessee Titans in 2023, shortly before Vrabel was fired and Hopkins stuck around for one more year before joining the Kansas CIty Chiefs. Perhaps in that time, Hopkins found a appreciated mentor who could provide some wisdom as he considers his next professional steps.
The idea of Hopkins jumping into coaching at this point shouldn't be an automatic one just yet. Even in a short stint with the Chiefs after the NFL's trade deadline in 2024, Hopkins still commanded respect as a physical possession receiver capable of being a trusted target on a new team. The former three-time first-team All-Pro had 41 catches for 437 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns in a half-season with the Chiefs.
The veteran wide receiver is hanging in New England to start training camp season, but it's hard to tell what direction he's headed overall.
Hopkins had only 22 catches for 330 yards and 2 scores a year ago for the Baltimore Ravens, and his five Pro Bowls all came before COVID-19 was a concern for us all. That places much of his appreciable impact in the rearview mirror, but it's important to remember that the Ravens' season went off the rails last season and led to John Harbaugh's ouster after 18 seasons. Hopkins was third in targets after wide receiver Zay Flowers and tight end Mark Andrews for an offense at 39 overall.
But the Chiefs remain a team in need of some potential help at wide receiver given that they're basically running it back with the same unit that lacked dynamism a year ago. The Chiefs are hoping a coaching change with Chad O'Shea imported as a new positional leader will move the developmental meter for younger players like Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy atop the depth chart. Other than drafting Cyrus Allen, the Chiefs are leaning on the same corps of targets from a year ago.
Given his experience and proven hands, it might make sense for the Chiefs to check in on a player like Hopkins if he's not yet ready for the coaching mill. But if so, he brings a tremendous body of work with him that brings some serious Hall of Fame cache to the conversation. Hopkins has yet to find a home for the 2026 season, but he was a salve for the Chiefs offense only two seasons ago and he's got something to bring this year as well, whether on the field or watching closely from the sidelines.
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