DeAndre Hopkins Eyes Vikings Reunion with Kyler Murray: What’s Next for the Veteran Receiver?
At 33 years aged and with 13 seasons in the NFL under his belt, DeAndre Hopkins isn’t ready to gradual down. After a somewhat inconsistent season with the Baltimore Ravens, the free agent wide receiver is now looking for a new team. And Hopkins has made it clear: his preferred destination is Minnesota.
A Familiar Connection with Kyler Murray
The Minnesota Vikings recently signed quarterback Kyler Murray, adding a potential starter alongside J.J. McCarthy. This move has sparked Hopkins’ interest, as the two enjoyed a successful partnership in Arizona. From 2020 to 2022, Hopkins thrived with Murray as his quarterback, recording 1,407 receiving yards in 2020.
“Kyler is like family for me,” Hopkins told TMZ. “Whatever I can do for someone like him – if Kyler needs me, if the Vikings need me, they understand I’ll be there.”
Does Hopkins Fit the Vikings’ Needs?
The question isn’t necessarily whether Hopkins wants to be a Viking, but whether the Vikings need Hopkins. Minnesota already has a clear-cut No. 1 receiver in Justin Jefferson, and Jordan Addison is slated to be the No. 2 receiver, playing in the final year of his rookie contract.
While Hopkins may not be as effective as he once was – he recorded around 41 catches and 437 yards last season – he could still bring valuable experience and reliable hands to the Vikings’ offense. His skills were on display at Tom Brady’s Flag Football Event, where he made a one-handed catch.
Hopkins’ Career Highlights
Originally drafted in the first round by the Houston Texans in 2013, Hopkins has been a Pro Bowler five times throughout his career. In 2025 with the Ravens, Hopkins was targeted just 39 times, significantly fewer than Jalen Nailor in Minnesota, who filled the WR3 role.
Will Hopkins Become the Vikings’ WR3?
The Vikings lost Jalen Nailor to free agency, creating a potential opening for a veteran receiver to fill the WR3 role. Hopkins could provide a reliable target for Murray and a valuable presence in the red zone. The Vikings have room for a proven veteran, and Hopkins is clearly interested in joining the team.
FAQ
- What role would DeAndre Hopkins likely play on the Vikings? He would likely compete for the WR3 position, providing a veteran presence and a reliable target for Kyler Murray.
- How did DeAndre Hopkins perform in 2025? He played 17 games for the Baltimore Ravens, making three starts and catching 22 passes for 330 yards and two touchdowns.
- What is the connection between DeAndre Hopkins and Kyler Murray? They played together on the Arizona Cardinals from 2020 to 2022, where Hopkins had one of the most productive stretches of his career.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on how the Vikings approach the rest of free agency and the upcoming NFL Draft. Their decisions will likely indicate how seriously they are considering adding Hopkins to the roster.
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