The Minnesota Vikings find themselves in a precarious yet intriguing position with their wide receiver lineup. They've got the league's best receiver and a top-tier No. 2, providing a solid foundation. However, any disruption to this duo could quickly unravel their offensive plans.
As the Vikings embark on the Kyler Murray experiment, they haven't yet secured a reliable WR3 this offseason. Enter Deandre Hopkins, a free agent with history alongside Murray during their time with the Arizona Cardinals from 2020 to 2022. Hopkins has expressed openness to reuniting with his former quarterback in Minnesota.
“Kyler, that’s my bro, man. Kyler’s like family,” Hopkins shared with TMZ Sports.
“I talked to Kyler throughout the year last year. I talked to Kyler after his situation in Arizona.
Kyler’s like family, man. I would always embrace that journey with him.
He’s on a one-year deal, if I’m not mistaken. Whatever I can do for someone like that - if Kyler needed me, if the Vikings need me, they know I’ll be there.”
While the Vikings’ interest in Hopkins remains uncertain, the move could be strategic. Assuming the team addresses the position in the upcoming draft, their current depth behind the starters includes Tai Felton, Jeshaun Jones, Dontae Fleming, Myles Price, and a rookie. Combined, these players have minimal NFL experience, with Felton accounting for their three career receptions.
Last season, the Vikings had more depth with Jalen Nailor as their No. 3 receiver, but they still opted to trade for Adam Thielen, emphasizing the importance of reliable depth. It's unlikely Minnesota will head into Week 1 without adding a seasoned veteran to their ranks.
Among the free agents available, Deandre Hopkins stands out. He knows the potential starting quarterback and wouldn’t demand a hefty, multi-year contract like Jauan Jennings.
Unlike Tyreek Hill, he’s not recovering from a major injury, and he’s not Stefon Diggs, who might come with a higher price tag. Although Hopkins is 33 and his production has dipped, his reliability remains valuable.
In the past two seasons, Hopkins has caught 66% of his targets, matching Justin Jefferson’s career rate. During his stint with Murray, that number rose to 73%.
Even in the last couple of challenging seasons, 67% of his catches resulted in first downs. Hopkins might not be as physically dominant as before, but he’s still a chain mover.
Moreover, Hopkins could address one of Minnesota’s glaring issues from last season: red-zone efficiency. The Vikings struggled to convert, scoring touchdowns on just 56% of their red-zone opportunities. Hopkins, with his size and ability to win jump balls, could be a significant asset in the end zone.
T.J. Hockenson, once reliable in this area, has seen his effectiveness wane since his knee injury. Hopkins, however, has scored touchdowns on 10% of his catches over the last two seasons, offering a potential boost in crucial moments.
Hopkins also brings a sense of stability. A rookie receiver carries inherent risks, especially if they need to step up to WR2.
Felton and Price would need significant development to instill confidence as a WR3. A trade for someone like Jerry Jeudy could deplete draft capital and add financial strain.
In this scenario, Deandre Hopkins emerges as the most viable option for the Vikings. Likely a one-year rental, he offers experience and trustworthiness. Just a few years removed from a 1,000-yard season with the Titans, Hopkins still has potential to contribute meaningfully.
While Jalen Nailor's absence will be felt, the Vikings must navigate budget constraints and roster gaps. Bringing in a savvy veteran like Hopkins could be the key to maintaining their offensive edge.