The winds of change are blowing through Baltimore, and they’re not subtle. With Jesse Minter stepping in as the Ravens’ new head coach, the franchise is entering a new era-one that’s expected to look and feel very different from the nearly two-decade run under John Harbaugh.
That kind of stability is rare in today’s NFL, and Harbaugh’s long tenure meant consistent philosophies and a clear identity. But now, with Minter taking the reins, the Ravens are preparing for a reset-starting with the coaching staff and likely extending deep into the roster.
Minter’s connections to Baltimore could keep a few familiar faces around, but the expectation is that many assistants will follow Harbaugh to New York or pursue other opportunities. And just like the coaching staff, the roster is in flux.
Several players from last year’s squad may be looking at new homes in 2026, either following Harbaugh to the Giants or reuniting with Minter from his Chargers days. The reality is, some fan favorites might not be back in purple and black next season.
One name that stands out in that conversation: DeAndre Hopkins.
After just one season in Baltimore, Hopkins became a quick fan favorite. He brought a veteran presence and a reliable set of hands to a Ravens receiving corps that has long struggled with consistency. But with a new offensive coordinator coming in-and Hopkins turning 34 before the start of next season-his future in Baltimore is anything but certain.
Hopkins, speaking recently on the Up & Adams Show with Kay Adams, didn’t sugarcoat the situation.
“The reality of it, having a new offensive coordinator, being an older guy. I know football, and I know how the business side works,” Hopkins said.
“Of course, I would love to come back, but not every offensive coordinator wants a veteran receiver on their team. ... It's nothing personal.
Obviously, Lamar and I had a great connection.”
That last line? That’s the one that should stick with Ravens fans-and, more importantly, with the front office. Because while Hopkins’ numbers in 2025 weren’t eye-popping (22 catches, 330 yards, two touchdowns), his impact went far beyond the box score.
Hopkins gave Lamar Jackson something he’s never truly had before: a big-bodied, contested-catch target who could bail him out when the pocket collapsed or the coverage tightened. He wasn’t the first read on many plays, but when Jackson needed a chain mover, Hopkins delivered. And he did it with remarkable consistency-just one drop all season.
In a receiver room headlined by Zay Flowers and supported by the speed of Rashod Bateman and Devontez Walker, Hopkins filled a different role. He was the veteran who knew how to get open in tight windows, who could use his frame and experience to win battles that younger receivers sometimes lose. He didn’t need to be the focal point of the offense to be valuable-he just needed to be available when it mattered.
From a roster-building standpoint, bringing Hopkins back makes a lot of sense. He won’t command a massive salary, and he’s not asking to be the WR1.
What he offers is depth, reliability, and a connection with Jackson that’s already proven to work. That kind of chemistry doesn’t grow on trees, and it’s not something you can manufacture in training camp.
Of course, the final call will come down to Minter and whoever he tabs as his offensive coordinator. Philosophies vary, and some coaches prefer to lean into youth and speed at the skill positions. But if the goal is to keep Jackson comfortable and keep the offense humming, then retaining a proven veteran like Hopkins should be on the table.
This isn’t about sentimentality-it’s about fit. Hopkins fits what Baltimore needs: a steady hand in a time of transition, a trusted target in high-leverage moments, and a respected voice in the locker room.
He’s not the player he was in his All-Pro prime, but he doesn’t need to be. He just needs to be the guy Lamar can count on when the play breaks down and the game’s on the line.
So while the Ravens chart a new course under Jesse Minter, they’d be wise to keep one foot anchored in what worked last year. DeAndre Hopkins may not be the flashiest piece in the puzzle, but he’s one that helps the picture come together.