The Kansas City Chiefs are looking to add more firepower to their offense, and they have their eyes on a big prize. The Chiefs star quarterback Patrick Mahomes is reportedly pursuing former Cardinals receiver DeAndre Hopkins, who is now available on the open market. However, there are some hurdles to overcome before the deal can happen.
After losing several key players in free agency including 4x Pro Bowler, they are left with few reliable options to complement their dynamic duo of Mahomes and Travis Kelce. Could they land the biggest fish in the market, former Cardinals star DeAndre Hopkins? It won’t be easy, but it could be worth it.
What does Mahomes’ six-worded claim suggest?
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During a press conference, Mahomes expressed his confidence in the depth of the receiver position, emphasizing the intense competition among the players. When Mahomes said in 6 clear words, “I think we’re deep at receiver,” he meant the team has multiple skilled players at the position and depth in their receiving corps. He noted that every individual had the potential to secure a spot on the team, which is precisely what he desired and this could precisely narrow the chances of acquiring free agent DeAndre Hopkins now.
#Chiefs Patrick Mahomes: I think we're deep at receiver. #ChiefsKingdom
There is speculation that the Chiefs look at Kadarius Toney as a number 1. pic.twitter.com/JSMgM3nVCk
— NFL Rumors (@nflrums) May 30, 2023
“I think that’s the biggest thing.” He added and also mentions, “So, (there’s) a lot of competition in that room will play out through OTAs and camp but I’m happy with where we’re at in that receiving room.” Mahomes commended the young players for their impressive performances and acknowledged the successful transition of players from different systems.
READ MORE – $230 Million Deshaun Watson Makes Free Agent DeAndre Hopkins an Offer He Can’t Refuse
He particularly praised Rashee Rice, the rookie, for his ability to understand and execute routes effectively. “And obviously, you know he has the explosiveness and the jump ball ability. But the way he was able to kind of feel throughout the zone coverages and pull up in the right spot, that’s more of a veteran-type mindset for a receiver so, I was very excited about that.” Mahomes admired Rice’s receptiveness to advice from seasoned players and his knack for finding open spaces in zone coverages. He anticipated Rice’s continued improvement and anticipated his significant contribution to the team’s offense in the upcoming season.
Chiefs’ head & tail for DeAndre Hopkins
Prior to the draft, Mahomes allegedly engaged in discussions with Hopkins, but the contract proved to be a major obstacle. Following his release from the Cardinals last Friday, Hopkins now stands as a free agent. Meanwhile, the Chiefs’ loss in free agency is notable, with Orlando Brown Jr departing for the Cincinnati Bengals. Having been a four-time Pro Bowler, Brown played a crucial role in the Chiefs’ triumph in Super Bowl LVII. Consequently, the team now faces the challenge of finding a suitable replacement at left tackle, given Brown’s significant contribution to their offensive line.
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Opposite to Mahomes plans, it seems the Chiefs face a pressing need for a wide receiver in 2023. They lost Mecole Hardman and JuJu Smith-Schuster in free agency, while Justin Watson remains unsigned. Despite signing Richie James, he excels more as a return specialist than a top-tier wide receiver. Though they drafted Rashee Rice in the second round, being a rookie, he may require time to adapt to the NFL. The Chiefs would greatly benefit from acquiring a proven playmaker like Hopkins, who could team up with Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. Securing Hopkins would provide an immediate upgrade and a seasoned presence in the position.
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