Report: There Is ‘Optimism’ That The Patriots Will Sign DeAndre Hopkins

DeAndre Hopkins Bill Belichick

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There is reported “Optimism” surrounding free-agent star wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins and the New England Patriots, according to TheAthletic’s Jeff Howe.

Hopkins is scheduled to visit Gillette Stadium on Thursday, raising hopes that a deal could be reached between the two parties.

The talented free agent became available after being cut by the Arizona Cardinals last month, and now the Patriots appear to be positioning themselves as potential suitors for his services.

A person with inside knowledge of the situation, who spoke to Jeff Howe, revealed that there is a sense of optimism surrounding the negotiations. However, it is important to acknowledge that there are still potential obstacles that need to be overcome before a contract can be finalized.

Firstly, the financial aspects of the deal remain unclear, with the cost of signing Hopkins yet to be determined. Despite this uncertainty, the Patriots are in a favorable position, boasting approximately $14.2 million in salary cap space, as reported by the NFLPA.

This financial flexibility could prove crucial in securing the services of the talented wide receiver.

In addition to the financial considerations, there is another factor that needs to be addressed before any agreement can be reached. It is essential for both the Patriots and Hopkins to establish a mutual understanding regarding his practice schedule.

In recent years, there has been a noticeable decline in the frequency of Hopkins’ practice participation. This discrepancy in approach raises questions about whether the two parties can find common ground and establish a harmonious working relationship.

There is no denying the immense talent that Hopkins brings to the field. When he is fully fit and active, he is widely regarded as one of the most dominant wide receivers in the entire league.

Even with limited playing time due to suspension, Hopkins managed to make a significant impact during his nine starts for the Cardinals. His impressive statistics speak for themselves, as he amassed 64 receptions for 717 yards and three touchdowns.

These numbers serve as a testament to his exceptional skills, versatility, and innate ability to make game-changing plays.

However, it is crucial for the Patriots and Hopkins to determine whether they are a good match for each other beyond the on-field production. Building a successful team requires more than just individual talent; it necessitates a cohesive unit that shares a common vision and work ethic.

Therefore, both parties must engage in open and honest discussions to ensure that their expectations align and that they can work together effectively.