The Baltimore Ravens signed veteran DeAndre Hopkins to a one-year, $5 million deal back in March. Many thought it would be a meaningless signing, given the 33-year-old's disappointing 2024 campaign. However, two games into the 2025 NFL season, Hopkins looks like the steal of the offseason.
Hopkins made a highlight reel catch to kick off his Ravens career with a one-handed, 29-yard touchdown against the Buffalo Bills in Week 1. He followed that up with an impressive catch in Week 2 against the Cleveland Browns.
The veteran wideout hauled in a 41-yard pass from Lamar Jackson, while Cleveland cornerback Greg Newsome II was draped all over him. It was initially ruled a touchdown, but was later overturned as he was short of the goal line. Somehow, the drive only ended in three points from rookie kicker Tyler Loop, but that does not change how impressive the play was from Hopkins.
An alternate angle on CBS’s broadcast made the splash play look even more impressive.
Otra joyita de DeAndre Hopkins. 😱
— NFL México (@nflmx) September 14, 2025
📺📱: @TUDNMEX por @ElNueveOf pic.twitter.com/VoTXGpUbGG
Despite tight coverage that could have been deemed pass interference from Newsome, Hopkins was able to work his way back to the ball and make the catch. He showcased his usual elite-level concentration and hands like glue. We are only two weeks in, but he and Jackson already appear to have great chemistry.
He did it again late in the fourth quarter, making a diving touchdown catch look easy on Browns’ corner Cam Mitchell.
Incredible.@DeAndreHopkins with ANOTHER great catch in the end zone!!!! Tune in on CBS and @paramountplus. pic.twitter.com/MujbZ1ZAGl
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) September 14, 2025
Alternate angle of DeAndre Hopkins’ highlight catch proves signing is already paying off
The Ravens’ passing offense is once again thriving this year. While in terms of passing yards, they have done nothing spectacular through Week 2, they have been consistent. Jackson is a big-play threat every time he drops back, and with a physical receiver like Hopkins finally paired alongside him, there could be significant strides made in 2025.
Hopkins is not much of a separator, but when you have the physicality and outstanding hands that he possesses and pinpoint ball placement from Jackson, it is a scary combination. He also pairs well with the rest of the receiving group.
While Hopkins can be that one-on-one go-get-it guy, Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman are elite separators and playmakers after the catch. Baltimore has an elite trio, and they are already doing damage.