Should Panthers Pursue Free Agent WR DeAndre Hopkins?

Hopkins would certainly help the young rookie QB.

In a surprising move, the Arizona Cardinals released veteran wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins Friday afternoon. There had been some discussions of possibly trading the 30-year-old but for one reason or another, they couldn't find a trade partner. Now, Hopkins will have full say in where he plays in 2023.

So, should the Panthers enter the mix for Hopkins?

If you read my article earlier this morning, then you already know my opinion on it which is yes. They absolutely should. Carolina has roughly $27 million available in cap space and there isn't a true No. 1 wide receiver on this roster. Adam Thielen, DJ Chark, and Jonathan Mingo will play well in their roles and I'm not ready to buy stock in Terrace Marshall Jr. just yet. 

GM Scott Fitterer may choose to hold onto that money to pursue a veteran defensive end or outside linebacker to add to the pass rush in addition to adding another corner for depth. However, signing Hopkins would give Bryce Young all sorts of comfort heading into his first season in the NFL. He would have one of the best receivers at the X and one of the most dynamic slot receivers in the league with Thielen. 

I'm sure Hopkins isn't all that interested in joining a team with an unproven quarterback but who knows? Maybe he believes in what Carolina is building and the Central, South Carolina native wants to play closer to home.

In his 10-year NFL career, Hopkins has hauled in 853 receptions for 11,298 yards and 71 touchdowns.

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