Kingsbury: Cardinals disappointed for Hopkins after learning of suspension

Arizona Cardinals head coach Kliff Kingsbury said the club was disappointed for DeAndre Hopkins when they learned about his six-game suspension.

"We're all disappointed for him. He's a great competitor. We'll just be fired up when he gets back," said Kingsbury, according to Bob McManaman of the Arizona Republic.

Kingsbury added: "We struggled the second half of the (2021) season, and when we get him back, I think that will be a real shot in the arm for the back half, and I know we'll get his best."

The three-time first-team All-Pro was suspended for six games without pay for violating the NFL's performance-enhancing drugs policy earlier in May. Hopkins issued an apology shortly after his suspension was announced.

He's eligible to participate in the Cardinals' preseason practices and games but will only be allowed to return to the team a few days ahead of its matchup against the New Orleans Saints on Thursday Night Football on Oct. 20.

Hopkins produced 42 receptions for 572 yards and eight touchdowns in 10 games last season after he was sidelined for seven games due to various injuries. Arizona posted a 3-4 record without Hopkins.

He recorded four consecutive 1,000-yard campaigns from 2017 to 2020.

Arizona is set to rely on a pass-catching group that includes A.J. Green, Rondale Moore, and Zach Ertz.

The Cardinals also added Marquise Brown in a trade with the Baltimore Ravens during the 2022 draft, but Kingsbury is tempering expectations as they attempt to maximize his strengths.

"We've just got to figure out where he fits best with that type of speed, whether it's inside, outside," he said.

Kingsbury said the Cardinals' receiving corps and an improvement in the running game are needed to overcome Hopkins' absence.

The Cardinals kick off their 2022 campaign Sept. 11 when they host the Kansas City Chiefs.