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The DeAndre Hopkins free agency saga has taken an interesting twist.
Despite visits to the New England Patriots and Tennessee Titans earlier this month, the star wide receiver remains unsigned despite currently entertaining offers from both teams, now two sleeper teams now reportedly “lurking” in the background to secure his services.
The Cleveland Browns and Carolina Panthers have emerged as potential destinations for Hopkins, according to ESPN’s Sal Paolantonio, as shared by Brad Stainbrook of TheOBR.
While the New England Patriots sound like the leaders, the Cleveland Browns and Carolina Panthers are still lurking on DeAndre Hopkins, per Sal Paolantonio on ESPN Radio.
— Brad Stainbrook (@StainbrookNFL) June 27, 2023
The Cleveland Browns’ interest in Hopkins is understandable given their current quarterback situation. With Deshaun Watson now leading the Browns’ offense, a reunion between Watson and Hopkins could potentially rekindle the magic they shared during their time with the Houston Texans.
Hopkins, known for his remarkable catches and consistent performances, would bolster an already impressive offensive lineup consisting of wide receiver Amari Cooper, tight end David Njoku, and running back Nick Chubb. This combination would undoubtedly make the Browns one of the league’s most formidable offensive units.
On the other hand, the Carolina Panthers’ pursuit of Hopkins reveals their determination to make a strong push this season.
Despite having rookie quarterback Bryce Young, the number one overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Panthers’ front office seems keen on acquiring a veteran receiver like Hopkins to provide immediate impact. While
Young holds significant promise, Hopkins might be hesitant to align himself with a rookie quarterback. However, the Panthers have taken steps to fortify their receiving corps, selecting Jonathan Mingo in the second round of the draft and boasting talents such as Terrace Marshall, to go with veterans D.J. Chark, and Adam Thielen.
Adding Hopkins to this mix would significantly elevate the Panthers’ offensive capabilities.
While the Cleveland Browns and Carolina Panthers don’t currently appear to be the frontrunners for Hopkins, other teams could potentially enter the mix as well.
Reports suggest that the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, previously pursued Hopkins before their salary cap situation become less favorable.
Paolantonio also expended that he does believe the Patriots could ultimately sign Hopkins and he explained why during the radio appearance.
As @stainbrookNFL mentioned earlier today, Sal Paolantonio appeared on ESPN Radio this morning to talk, among other topics, about DeAndre Hopkins and his potential landing spot. Here is the full answer, mentioning the Patriots as a likely destination. https://t.co/HbrVpYSZzY pic.twitter.com/Ae2Uvylm2I
— Bernd Buchmasser (@BerndBuchmasser) June 27, 2023
As the DeAndre Hopkins free agency saga continues, it becomes evident that the sweepstakes for his signature are far from over.
With time on his side, Hopkins can afford to be patient and carefully consider his options. Whether he ultimately joins the Patriots, Titans, Browns, Panthers, Chiefs, or a surprise team, it is clear that any franchise would greatly benefit from the addition of this five-time Pro Bowl selection.