After his release from the Cardinals last month, many teams are keeping an eye out for DeAndre Hopkins. Hopkins is looking for a new team that can offer him a fair deal and a chance to win. But he is also running out of time.
However, DeAndre wants to sign a deal before training camp starts in late July. But who can afford him? His salary demand is high and his injury and suspension history is concerning. The Bills, for example, have very little cap space left and a talented duo of receivers already. Are they ready to make some drastic change in salary space?
Buffalo Bills limited in pursuit of DeAndre Hopkins after star DT extension
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
During the offseason, the Buffalo Bills made a significant move by securing their star defensive tackle with a lucrative four-year extension. The deal, which includes $45 million guaranteed, secures Ed Oliver’s future in Buffalo through 2027. Since being selected ninth overall in 2019, this dynamo on the defensive line has wreaked havoc with 14.5 sacks and 42 quarterback hits over four seasons. However, the extension also puts the Bills in a tight spot with their cap space. With their funds depleted by Ed Oliver’s hefty extension, the Bills are left with a mere $1.5 million, an insufficient amount to lure a superstar like DeAndre Hopkins.
𝗨𝗽𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲: #Bills sign DT Ed Oliver to a 4-year, $68 million contract with $45 million guaranteed, per @AdamSchefter pic.twitter.com/WWGNxeIySE
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) June 3, 2023
A Twitter user doubts the acquisition of Ed Oliver instead of the incredible DeAndre Hopkins.
“Imagine signing him over deandre hopkins”
One fan clearly saying, the Bills spent too much on a mediocre player and missed out on Hopkins.
“BILLS OVERPAID FOR MID AND CANT GET HOPKINS LETSSSS GO!!!”
While, one is stunned by the act and expresses, the Bills constantly struggle with their salary cap due to deals like this.
“17 mil a year? That’s insane. Buffalo is always capped out, because of contracts like this.”
However, Hopkins is not under contract with any team right now and became a free agent after being released by the Cardinals last month. Unless the Bills make some drastic changes to their roster or restructure some contracts, they won’t be able to afford Hopkins anytime soon. A question arises: ‘will Hopkins find a new home?’
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Hopkins searches for a new NFL home
Fresh off his departure from the Cardinals, DeAndre Hopkins is on a quest to find his perfect NFL landing spot. Hopkins is undoubtedly a premier talent at the receiver position, but he also comes with some baggage. His asking price is high, as he seeks a contract comparable to what the Ravens gave Odell Beckham Jr. (one year, $15 million guaranteed).
While, DeAndre’s durability and discipline are also questionable, as he has dealt with injuries and suspensions in the past. These factors might scare off some teams that are looking for a bargain or a reliable option. The Bills, for instance, already boast a dynamic pair of receivers in Stefon Diggs and Dalton Kincaid, who have proven to be a formidable duo on the field. Thus, adding Hopkins might not be worth the cost or the risk for them.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
WATCH THIS STORY – Fearless 231LB QB’s Bear Hunt Sparks Controversy for Overshadowing Former NFL Stars’ Cruel Mistake.