DeAndre Hopkins, once considered among the elite wide receivers in the NFL, is on the brink of free agency in 2025. Meanwhile, he will play out his 2024 season with the Kansas City Chiefs. Now at 32 years old, Hopkins may have a couple of more productive years left in his tank, albeit likely in a more limited role than during his early peak years.
Potential Move to the Buffalo Bills
As speculation heats up around his next landing spot, there’s a strong case to be made for Hopkins joining the Buffalo Bills on a short-term deal. With the Chiefs potentially ready to let him walk, the Bills could see him filling a crucial slot as a seasoned depth receiver.
Parting Ways with the Kansas City Chiefs
Hopkins’ fit with the Chiefs’ dynamic offense hasn’t quite lived up to expectations. Despite the absence of Rashee Rice, Hopkins struggled to leave his mark. He surpassed the 60-yard receiving mark just twice during the regular season and didn’t crack the 100-yard barrier in either game. The postseason hasn’t been much better, with only one catch for 11 yards across two games. Given the Chiefs’ offensive strategy, Hopkins appears to be an awkward fit, and considering their minimal roster gaps, they might look towards picking a receiver in the early rounds of the upcoming NFL Draft for a fresh injection of talent.
Exploring Options with the Buffalo Bills
Without expecting a grand resurgence for Hopkins, his potential role in Buffalo could be as a replacement for veteran Amari Cooper, whose cost may outweigh his production at this stage. Both receivers now occupy a similar niche, offering experienced depth. However, the real game-changer for Buffalo could be Hopkins’ potential mentorship role with Keon Coleman.
Drafted 33rd overall, Coleman arrives with high expectations but also as a raw talent from Florida State, showcasing promise but leaving room for growth. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 215 pounds, Coleman’s frame is comparable to Hopkins, and learning under the latter’s tutelage could be invaluable. While Kansas City presents an immediate chance for championship success, Buffalo is not far behind in competitiveness. This potential move for Hopkins might not grab major headlines, but it offers mutual benefits, injecting wisdom and depth into Buffalo’s receiving corps while giving Hopkins one more opportunity to contribute meaningfully.
