A few months ago, the Arizona Cardinals were actively trying to ship out wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, a player who was once in talks of becoming one of the best players in the game. In the 2022 season, though Hopkins showed he had something to offer, the Cardinals stunningly decided to get rid of him.
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The all-pro wide receiver, who looked destined to make big money, is now suddenly out of job. However, the soon-to-be-31-year-old has his freedom to choose the team, and the QB he wishes to play for. Talking about the same, DeAndre recently revealed his list of quarterbacks with whom he would love to share the locker-room. Of course, Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts made the list.
Which talented QB does DeAndre Hopkins want to play alongside?
Hopkins was reportedly granted permission to seek trades and was almost dealt during the 2023 NFL draft. In a recent appearance on the ‘I AM ATHLETE’ podcast, he outlined the specific characteristics he seeks in his future team. Moreover, during the podcast, the veteran WR also mentioned the skilled signal callers he wants to play for.
“One of my favorite quarterbacks I’ve been watching since he came in the league is Josh Allen,” DeAndre Hopkins said. “He reminds me of a new-school Andrew Luck. I love Josh Allen. Jalen Hurts, he’s a Houston kid, and he’s a dog. Patrick Mahomes is another one I would love to throw me the ball. I [also] got to go with the underdog, not as many people respect him as a throwing quarterback, but [Baltimore Ravens QB] Lamar [Jackson]. … I’m going to [also] have to go with my dude with the Chargers, Justin Herbert.”
Indeed, Mahomes, Jackson, Allen, Hurts, and Herbert are some of the best and most elite quarterbacks in the league. Hopkins is one of the league’s most productive pass-catchers when healthy; therefore, if there are any teams that can rise as a dark horse and have money, Hopkins can choose them as Arizona, or anyone can no longer stop him from doing so.
Possible landing spots for DeAndre Hopkins
Buffalo Bills: The Buffalo Bills have emerged as strong contenders for Super Bowls with their impressive performance over the past three regular seasons. Leading the league in both points per game and points allowed per game, they have established themselves as a dominant force. Adding another receiver alongside Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis, especially since rookie tight end Dalton Kincaid is expected to fill the slot receiver role, would be beneficial. With quarterback Josh Allen as his preferred teammate, Hopkins could consider a smaller contract to fit the salary cap and make Buffalo the ideal choice.
Green Bay Packers: As the Green Bay Packers enter a post-Aaron Rodgers era, their rivals like the Detroit Lions and Chicago Bears are gaining momentum, while the Packers themselves may not be perceived as strong contenders, which may not align with Hopkins’ preferences. However, Green Bay could still be a surprise choice. With over $16.5 million in cap space, ranking sixth in the NFL, the Packers have the financial flexibility to accommodate Hopkins. Additionally, the presence of young receivers like Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs could benefit from Hopkins’ experience and talent. Jordan Love, the Packers’ quarterback, would also benefit from having a receiver of Hopkins’ caliber on the team.
Cleveland Browns: Although the Cleveland Browns have addressed their wide receiver needs by acquiring Elijah Moore and Cedric Tillman, the front office is likely determined to enhance Deshaun Watson’s performance and validate his contract. Last season, Watson had a relatively average record of 3-3 and recorded his lowest career average of 183.7 passing yards per game, along with seven touchdowns and five interceptions. Reuniting Watson with Hopkins would be a highly favorable move. Despite having limited cap space ($7 million, ranked 23rd in the NFL), the Browns present a viable destination for Hopkins.
