The Baltimore Ravens are set to endure countless changes under the leadership of new head coach Jesse Minter. Under John Harbaugh, the team saw stability at the head coaching spot for 18 years, and as a result, philosophies and roster building remained relatively the same. However, after hiring Minter on Thursday, that is set to change.
That will start with an almost completely new coaching staff. Minter’s Baltimore ties could keep many staffers in the building, but many are departing for other opportunities. In the same way, the roster will see countless players leave to start anew elsewhere.
Some of the Ravens' pending free agents could follow Harbaugh to the New York Giants. Minter will likely do the same, bringing some of his former players in from the Los Angeles Chargers. Unfortunately, that means several steady contributors from last year’s team could be out of a roster spot ahead of the 2026 season. That could include veteran wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, who blossomed into a fan-favorite in his first year in Charm City.
On an episode of the Up & Adams Show with Kay Adams, Hopkins spoke about what the near future may look like for him.
“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.”
For Ravens fans, that’s all they needed to hear. Hopkins would be a great piece to have back in the rotation. However, it’s up to Minter and his decision on his new offensive coordinator.
Ravens must bring DeAndre Hopkins back
Regardless of who the next offensive coordinator is, Baltimore should make it a priority to bring Hopkins back. Despite finishing the year with just 22 receptions for 330 yards and two touchdowns, the 33-year-old made the most of his limited opportunities.
As Hopkins said, the connection between him and quarterback Lamar Jackson was outstanding. For the first time in his career, Jackson had a big-bodied target that he could trust consistently in contested situations. While he didn’t see the field a ton, Hopkins proved to be a chain mover and a security blanket when the pocket broke down. Even when he was covered, he was reliable, having just one drop throughout the season.
With Hopkins, Baltimore likely won’t rush to make any sort of deal. The future Hall of Famer has clearly been on a steady decline, but he would be an ideal rotational option for Jackson to have at his disposal. The team has its number one weapon in Zay Flowers, and Rashod Bateman and Devontez Walker are big play threats. Along with a number two option on the outside, Hopkins feels like one of the pieces the receiving room would be missing. He wouldn’t cost all that much either.
Ultimately, retaining Hopkins not only feels like a smart decision in terms of roster construction but also one that would keep Jackson happy.