The Tennessee Titans are counting on DeAndre Hopkins to be a focal point in the franchise’s quest for an AFC South crown, as well as in helping power the development of second-year second-round pick Will Levis into a franchise quarterback.
Hopkins made an instant impact last season, catching 75 passes for 1,057 yards and seven touchdowns after signing a two-year deal worth $26 million.
Following an early training camp practice, Hopkins addressed his uncertain future with the franchise and the possibility of signing a new deal.
“I take it day by day,” Hopkins told reporters on July 25, according to AtoZ Sports Nashville. “I love Tennessee. I love what Miss Amy’s doing. This is the happiest I’ve been with any organization. I’ll let that speak for itself.”
This season could prove pivotal in Hopkins’ quest for a new deal, especially given the exploding receiver market over the course of this past offseason. After all, Hopkins is entering this season at age 32, with 162 games under his belt, so it is an open question whether wear and tear could start catching up to the veteran star.
NFL Analyst Optimistic About Tennessee Titans’ Future
If Levis can make major strides, the Titans could be a team to watch this upcoming season.
Few quarterbacks will have a more dynamic and balanced supporting cast of weapons than Levis, with Hopkins, Calvin Ridley, and Tyler Boyd as a reliable set of receivers with big-play potential and Tony Pollard arriving as an experienced running back capable of making plays as a runner and pass-catcher out of the backfield.
At least one NFL analyst is optimistic.
“Two years after trading wide receiver A.J. Brown to the Philadelphia Eagles and heading into their first season without star running back Derrick Henry, the Titans have seemingly pieced together the playmakers they’ll need to compete at a high level. Ridley, an explosive perimeter threat, will now pair with DeAndre Hopkins, Treylon Burks and Boyd to make life easier on Levis,” Ryan Fowler writes for Bleacher Report. “With a new, offensive-minded head coach in Brian Callahan, Tennessee has the talent to surprise this fall should Levis continue to progress under center.”
The Titans have plenty of weapons, and this season could be an audition for Hopkins to be a big part of Tennessee’s future.