Free agent wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins’ time “working with” the Patriots? Yeah, that was short. Like, *really* short. Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel confirmed today that Hopkins is no longer with the team, ending a brief stint where the veteran receiver was helping out the coaching and personnel staff.
“A Great Experience” For Everyone But A Contract
Vrabel, who coached Hopkins previously in Tennessee, was quick to frame the situation positively. He said Hopkins was a “good presence” during his few days in New England. “It was a great experience,” Vrabel stated. “Hop’s not here, but it was a great experience for all of us. That’s what we try to do when we have some of these unique situations where a player or former player or whatever it might be wants to come in and help and learn and they love football, and I think it was good for everybody.” It sounds all warm and fuzzy, right? But let’s be real, “not here” is the key phrase when a 34-year-old free agent is trying to find a home.
What’s Next for the Veteran Wideout?
Hopkins himself has been vocal, saying he’s got “a lot of football left” in the tank. The guy hopes to sign with a real contender at some point this season. After spending “a few days” helping out a coaching staff, instead of actually signing a deal, you have to wonder what’s going on. This late in the game, with the season getting closer every day, a player of Hopkins’ caliber needs to be on a roster, not just in a building. The clock is ticking, and the league is definitely watching to see where this saga ends.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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