Tennessee Titans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins has been widely mentioned in trade rumors amid a frustrating season in Music City, but the 32-year-old knows exactly where he’d like to be once the Nov. 5 deadline passes.
DeAndre Hopkins is in the final season of a two-year deal he signed with Tennessee in 2023 free agency following his release from the Arizona Cardinals. With the Titans (1-4) out of the playoff race, it makes sense for GM Ran Carthon to trade “Nuk” instead of risking him for nothing in free agency next spring.
Speaking to reporters, however, the five-time Pro Bowler made it clear that he desires to stay right where he is in Music City.
“I love my life. I love where I am,” DeAndre Hopkins said, via Jim Wyatt of the team’s official website. “God put me where I need to be, and He always will. I play football.”
Many were surprised when Hopkins signed with the rebuilding Titans as a free agent, since Super Bowl contenders like the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills and Baltimore Ravens needed extra help at wide receiver.
DeAndre Hopkins on potential he’s traded. #Titans pic.twitter.com/APGN9Y5FLW
— Paul Kuharsky (@PaulKuharskyNFL) October 17, 2024
In his first season with the Titans, DeAndre Hopkins caught 75 passes for 1,057 yards and seven touchdowns. Over Tennessee’s first five games of 2024, he has 14 catches for 175 yards and one score.
Titans Should Trade DeAndre Hopkins
The Titans made a mistake by holding on to superstar running back Derrick Henry last year instead of trading him. The two-time rushing champion left for nothing in free agency and is having an excellent first year with the Baltimore Ravens.
As he’ll be 33 years of age next season, it’s hard to envision Hopkins signing a new deal with Tennessee. They have a murky quarterback situation and questions on the offensive line, whereas a Super Bowl contender like Kansas City, Buffalo, Detroit or even Green Bay could use him as a possible WR1.
Tennessee can’t let another star offensive weapon walk for nothing. They should trade Hopkins before the Nov. 5 deadline and get something in return.