DeAndre Hopkins, Tennessee Titans‘s wide receiver, is looking forward to amplifying his performances in his 12 NFL season. While critics predict a decline in his performance given that he will turn 32 soon, Hopkins thinks otherwise. And the source of his inspiration stems from the legendary athlete, Kobe Bryant.

Last season, Hopkins had recorded 75 catches for 1,057 yards and seven touchdowns. Now, the five-time Pro Bowler is staying with the Titans as his 3 NFL team, while aiming to do better than the current WR lineup. The Twitter handle of Around The NFL posted Hopkins’ views on the current additions of Calvin Ridley, and Tyler Boyd. “I am trying to outcompete them,” Hopkins said.

Hopkins highlighted his resilience through his statement, “I am always competing,” at a recent interview as well. He further remarked, “Any time we get anyone who is a No.1 receiver, my mindset is to go out and outcompete them, outdo them. I’ve always had that mindset, Kobe Bryant being my favorite athlete of all time. Any time I get a chance to compete against anyone I am trying to outcompete them, trying to outdo them. And that’s only going to make the team better.”

Channeling Bryant’s competitive ethos, Hopkins is ready to give his all. While committed to improving his performance, he also intends to help second-year quarterback Will Levis. As veteran starter Ryan Tannehill suffered an injury, Levis will pitch into Week 8. Hopkins is keen on unlocking Will’s potential, adding, “It’s up to us to go out and help him be the best quarterback he can be.”

Ready to hit the field with a new WR lineup

Under the new head coach Brian Callahan, the Tennessee Titans intend to redirect their philosophy. They are seeking to switch from a run-heavy offense centered around Derrick Henry and invest more heavily into the pass-oriented system. The Titans’ front office has amped up the cavalier after signing Calvin Ridley and Tyler Boyd. And, Hopkins believes it is perhaps the best WR group he has played with.

And this sentiment was evident in his statement. “I think this is one of the best wide receiver groups I’ve had the chance to play with on paper,” he said. “Obviously, I could come up here and say a bunch, but we haven’t played a game yet. So, we’ll see how it goes once we hit the field,” he added.

The new offensive talents, namely Calvin Ridley and Tyler Boyd, are expected to revolutionize the dynamics of the team. Ridley, who is particularly known for his route-running skills, is now part of the team owing to his four-year, $92 million contract. Other names expected to perform include Treylon Burks, who even gained recognition from Hopkins alongside Kyle Phillips and Jha’Quan Jackson.

While the new lineup is yet to play a game together, Hopkins seems to be putting all his faith into his new team.