Two Teams ‘Lurking’ With Patriots, Titans in DeAndre Hopkins Pursuit, Says Insider

The 3x All-Pro is generating interest from a couple of “lurking” teams alongside the New England Patriots and Tennessee titans.

DeAndre Hopkins has yet to latch on with a new team following his release from the Cardinals earlier this offseason. The star wide receiver has been linked to a handful of destinations, including the Patriots and Titans, though no deal has materialized yet.

During an episode of ESPN’s Keyshawn, JWill & Max, NFL reporter Sal Paolantonio indicated that there are two other teams “lurking” in the mix for Hopkins.

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“Carolina is lurking, Cleveland is lurking, for sure,” said Paolantonio of the market for Hopkins.

Despite the interest from the Panthers and Browns, Paolantonio indicated he believes that Hopkins will wind up in New England.

“I believe so. There’s mutual interest... Bill Belichick likes DeAndre Hopkins, likes his game. And DeAndre Hopkins likes the situation in New England, knows Bill O’Brien,” said Paolantonio when asked if he thinks the Patriots are the favorites to land the veteran wideout.

Arizona released Hopkins in May after failing to lock down a trade partner for the 31-year-old. In doing so, the Cardinals will absorb a dead cap hit of $22.6 million. 

It was previously reported that Hopkins, now a free agent, hopes to sign for a new team before training camp gets underway in July.

Last year, Hopkins missed the first six games due to a suspension. Across nine games in 2022, the five-time Pro Bowler racked up 64 receptions, 717 yards, and three touchdowns.