Impending free agent wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins may have a short-lived stint with the Kansas City Chiefs, as the three-time All-Pro prepares to hit the open market. While no longer among the league’s elite due to age, Hopkins remains a dependable starter with the size and strength to excel on the outside. After beginning the 2024 season with the Tennessee Titans, he was traded to Kansas City at the deadline, finishing with 41 receptions, 437 yards, and four touchdowns in 10 games.
Hopkins played a crucial role in the Chiefs’ Super Bowl run and is expected to draw significant interest in free agency. According to Ian Valentino of The 33rd Team, he is projected to leave Kansas City and join their AFC West rival, the Los Angeles Chargers.
At this stage of his career, Hopkins may benefit from a quarterback who takes more aggressive deep shots and targets the perimeter more frequently than Mahomes. Justin Herbert and the Los Angeles Chargers seem like an ideal match.
Chargers Could Steal Free Agent DeAndre Hopkins From Chiefs
The Los Angeles Chargers are in desperate need of another wide receiver. While head coach Jim Harbaugh prefers a run-heavy approach, even he understands the necessity of adding more talent to the passing game. Second-round rookie Ladd McConkey performed exceptionally well, but 2023 first-rounder Quentin Johnston has been too inconsistent to rely on as a full-time starter. Reports indicate the team made multiple attempts to acquire Diontae Johnson last season, signaling their awareness that their current receiving corps isn’t sufficient.
DeAndre Hopkins would be an ideal addition. Though the five-time Pro Bowler is no longer an elite receiver, his skill set aligns well with what the Chargers need. McConkey is a crafty route-runner who can create separation both outside and in the slot, but he isn’t a consistent downfield contested-catch threat. Hopkins, on the other hand, thrives in that role and would complement Justin Herbert’s strong arm perfectly.
However, Hopkins isn’t the top wide receiver expected to hit free agency. Tee Higgins will likely leave Cincinnati for a more lucrative deal, and Chris Godwin could also depart Tampa Bay. Both players offer more at this stage of their careers than Hopkins. With $63.4 million in cap space, the Chargers have the financial flexibility to pursue either Higgins or Godwin while also addressing other offensive needs. Still, if Los Angeles prioritizes improving the offensive line or tight end position, signing Hopkins could be a smart, cost-effective move.
Could the Chiefs Bring Him Back?
The Kansas City Chiefs would likely prefer to keep DeAndre Hopkins, but financial constraints may prevent them from doing so. As of now, the team is slightly over the projected 2025 salary cap and must prioritize retaining other key free agents. Players like Trey Smith, Nick Bolton, and Justin Reid are all set to hit the open market and are likely more valuable to the Chiefs than Hopkins.
Rookie first-round pick Xavier Worthy emerged as a strong contributor late in the season, and Rashee Rice is expected to return in 2025. If Travis Kelce continues playing, Kansas City will have three dependable targets for Patrick Mahomes. However, if Kelce decides to retire, the team may reconsider keeping Hopkins as a veteran presence in the passing game.
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