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In the wake of star wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins‘ release from the Arizona Cardinals last month, the NFL world has been eagerly following his journey to find a new team.
As Hopkins continues his search for a fresh start, team executives have been engaging in discussions regarding his value and potential impact on his next team.
Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer recently shed light on these conversations in a report that delved into what NFL team executives believe is Hopkins’ value:
Breer’s report provided insights into the discussions among team executives regarding Hopkins’ value. When asked about the wide receiver’s potential price tag, one executive highlighted the challenges of the current market landscape, noting that teams had already made significant financial commitments during the free agency period.
The executive says that if Hopkins were a free agent in March, he believes Hopkins would have commanded an $18 million salary on a multiyear deal, underscoring the receiver’s exceptional talents.
Another executive ventured a more conservative estimate, suggesting a one-year deal in the range of $8 million to $10 million, with incentives to compensate if Hopkins could perform at his usual high level.
Hopkins, one of the league’s most dynamic wide receivers, has been making the rounds, meeting with teams to explore potential landing spots. The Tennessee Titans are the first to host him, and the New England Patriots are set to have him next.
These visits serve as an opportunity for teams to assess Hopkins’ fit within their offensive systems and gauge his financial worth.
While Hopkins encountered some obstacles during the 2022 season, including a suspension for violating the league’s performance-enhancing drug policy, his on-field performance continued to validate his status as an elite wide receiver.
Despite missing several games due to the suspension, Hopkins managed to make a significant impact in just nine starts. He accumulated impressive statistics, with 64 receptions for 717 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing his exceptional skills and playmaking abilities.
These numbers, though achieved in a shortened season, demonstrate Hopkins’ value and his potential to transform an offense. With his ability to consistently create separation, make contested catches, and find the end zone, Hopkins remains a highly sought-after asset in the NFL.
As teams weigh the financial implications and the impact Hopkins could bring to their roster, the receiver’s future destination is still uncertain.
With multiple teams expressing interest and evaluating his value, Hopkins’ decision will likely come down to a combination of factors, including the team’s offensive scheme, the potential for success, and the financial package offered.