This past weekend, we saw the end of DeAndre Hopkins‘s stay with the Arizona Cardinals. His three-year career in Arizona saw him amass 221 catches for 2696 yards and 17 touchdowns. No trading partner was found for the Pro Bowl wide receiver, which led to his release.
Many teams could use the wideout’s services. Who wouldn’t want a 6’1″ guy on the outside for their quarterback to throw the football to? But, no team needs him more than the New York Football Giants.
Despite A Loaded Room, No Alpha Stands Out
The Giants ended the 2022-2023 season with uncertainty at the wide receiver position. Things changed after the re-signings of Sterling Shepard and Darius Slayton. Isaiah Hodgins was brought back as a restricted free agent.
Parris Campbell, Jamison Crowder, and Jeff Smith were brought in from free agency. Don’t forget about Wan’Dale Robinson, who was a second-round pick last year. Heck, I didn’t even bring up Jalin Hyatt, the rookie wideout from Tennessee.
In total, you have eight guys that are all serviceable and looking to contribute this upcoming season for Big Blue. But, there are so many question marks.
Shepard has struggled to stay healthy. Slayton struggles with drops. Campbell has never been a WR1 in Indianapolis. Robinson tore his ACL last year. Despite bursting onto the scene, there are still doubts as to if Hodgins can serve as a long-term option on the outside. Hyatt is still a rookie.
Combine that all together, and you have a variety of guys that will contribute but not separate themselves from the pack as the leading guy.
Hopkins Steps In, Fills WR1 Role
If New York decides to pursue and sign DeAndre Hopkins, there’s no doubt the wideout room becomes one of the most dangerous groups in the NFL. Daniel Jones will finally have a true star wide receiver to throw to after dealing with mediocrity for years now.
The veteran wideout would bring knowledge and experience to a relatively young core. He can help in the development of guys like Hyatt, Robinson, and Hodgins. Most importantly, the attention he brings from defenses will open up so much space for his teammates (which include tight end Darren Waller, a Pro Bowler in his own right).
Yes, Hopkins has struggled to stay healthy during these past couple of seasons. But, he’s 100% now, with evidence being provided after reports say he was healthy for the Cardinals’ final two games of 2022.
New York already has an improved offense compared to last year. As long as Saquon Barkley returns, they have a chance to make the playoffs once again. Signing DeAndre Hopkins would put them in the Super Bowl conversation.
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