Titans' Hopkins motivated by rejection in free agency
Tennessee Titans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins is ready to prove his doubters wrong.
Hopkins was released this offseason after spending the past three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals. His tenure was marred by injuries and a suspension for failing a performance-enhancing drug test. Despite being a three-time first-team All-Pro wideout, the 31-year-old struggled to find suitors for his services.
"There were some teams that I had on my list that I gave them calls and they didn't give a call back," Hopkins told GQ's Clay Skipper.
"Detroit Lions, they didn't want me. Dallas Cowboys didn't want me. Giants didn't want me. Shit. Who else ain't want me? San Fran ain't want me."
The five-time Pro Bowler believes that his age played a factor in the lack of offers when he became a free agent. But Hopkins believes that he brings plenty of game experience to the table.
"It ain't too many people out there that can say honestly that they can lock me down, guard me for a full four quarters," he said.
Hopkins ultimately agreed to terms with the Titans. He signed a two-year, $26-million contract to return to the AFC South after beginning his career as a member of the Houston Texans.
Hopkins joined the Cardinals after being traded by the Texans in 2020. He recorded 221 catches, 2,696 yards, and 17 touchdowns during his time with in Arizona.
The Clemson product flourished after the Texans selected him 27th overall in the 2013 draft. Hopkins posted five 1,000-yard seasons from 2013-2019 and sits second in most of the franchise's career receiving categories, including receptions (632), receiving yards (8,602), and TD catches (54).
Set to embark on his 11th NFL campaign, Hopkins is expected to mentor a young receiving corps for the Titans that features Treylon Burks and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine. Tennessee's big free-agent addition is expected to be a key weapon for quarterback Ryan Tannehill after the club missed the playoffs with a 7-10 record in 2022.
Hopkins is "very grateful" regarding his decision to sign with the Titans, and he's using the lack of interest from several teams as motivation ahead of the next chapter in his career.
"I can't wait to play 'em and, honestly, try my best to crush they ass," he said.