When the Baltimore Ravens signed DeAndre Hopkins last offseason, there was some excitement about what a contested catch threat could finally bring to a Lamar Jackson-led offense. Unfortunately, it turned out to be just another low-impact veteran wide receiver signing.
To his credit, Hopkins did flash on occasions. He kicked things off in impressive fashion with a one-handed snag on a 29-yard touchdown in Week 1, and two receptions, 64 yards, and another touchdown in Week 2. After that stretch, though, he was phased out of the offense, and it really felt like he was capable of more.
Now, it sure seems like Hopkins’ Baltimore chapter is over. The Ravens signed veteran Chris Moore to add another piece to their wideout room, and for Hopkins, he might actually be zeroing in on a future in coaching. The 34-year-old is exploring that opportunity with the New England Patriots.
Former Baltimore Ravens WR DeAndre Hopkins testing the waters in coaching
Hopkins might have something left in the tank, and he's still interested in suiting back up, so a return to the gridiron could still be in the cards in 2026. His 2025 stat line of 22 receptions, 330 yards, and two touchdowns isn’t great by any means, but it’s fine for a rotational option. His elite hands, concentration, and catch radius would also boost any team with Super Bowl hopes this season.
However, Hopkins’ sudden coaching interest might be the first step towards a different football career. And, being that the five-time Pro Bowler is one of the better wide receivers of this generation and arguably has some of the best hands in NFL history, he could really make a great coach.
On Friday, videos surfaced from Coach Hopkins in action. Notably, he was helping New England wide receivers work through contested catch drills (something that has been Hopkins’ speciality throughout his illustrious career).
DeAndre Hopkins working with the #Patriots WRs during a contested catch drill pic.twitter.com/NKConrF8JS
— Taylor Kyles (@tkyles39) July 25, 2026
Having a guy with Hopkins’ kind of success on the sidelines may greatly benefit the Patriots. He has been pretty much unguardable throughout his career, and having the chance to guide players through his technique and mindset could change the game for the Patriots.
It also makes sense that he has this chance with New England, given the lone season he spent under Mike Vrabel with the Tennessee Titans in 2023.
The Patriots haven’t made anything official yet. According to Vrabel, Hopkins is hanging around the coaching staff, personnel, and evidently helping out the wide receivers. It seems like a light role for now, but maybe this’ll be the start of the future Hall of Famer’s coaching career.
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