DeAndre Hopkins’ arrival in Baltimore has stirred big expectations. After last season’s exit in the AFC Divisional Round, Ravens fans are eager to see what the former All-Pro receiver brings to the table-and Hopkins himself believes he might be the final piece in the team’s Super Bowl puzzle.
With a championship window wide open, general manager Eric DeCosta isn’t wasting time. His front office opened the checkbook this offseason, adding veteran talent like Hopkins in an all-in push to hoist the Vince Lombardi Trophy.
After a subdued stint with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2024, Hopkins now joins a Ravens offense led by two-time MVP Lamar Jackson, and bolstered by young standouts Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman. His presence could provide the edge Baltimore needs to reach the biggest stage in February.
A veteran’s humility
During a recent press conference, Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey spoke with enthusiasm about Hopkins’ arrival. He shared that he’d already had a chance to speak with the 13-year veteran and was struck by his attitude: “Just having a conversation with him, I thought it was really humbling.”
Humphrey recounted a moment at practice when he and a coach asked Hopkins for his perspective on joining the Ravens. “He said, ‘It seems like there’s been a piece that’s been missing. I could be that addition. I could not be that addition,'” Humphrey recalled.
For the young corner, that humility stood out. “To hear a veteran guy-an All-Pro and a Pro Bowler-say he could be, or might not be, the missing piece? That was extremely humbling. I feel like he fits the Ravens mold. I think he’ll fit right in.”
How will Hopkins fit in?
Though his signing generated buzz, some analysts suggest Hopkins may take on a supporting role behind Flowers and Bateman in a run-heavy Baltimore offense.
Still, with 12,965 career receiving yards and a 1,057-yard campaign just two seasons ago, the veteran’s potential impact can’t be dismissed. Is it enough to push the Ravens over the top? We’ll know come February.
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