DeAndre Hopkins Signs One-Year Deal with Baltimore Ravens
In a significant move to bolster their receiving corps, the Baltimore Ravens have signed five-time Pro Bowl wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins to a one-year deal worth $5 million, with incentives that could push the total value to $6 million. The 31-year-old veteran brings a wealth of experience and playmaking ability to an already potent Ravens offense led by quarterback Lamar Jackson.
Hopkins, who began his NFL career with the Houston Texans in 2013, has been one of the league’s premier wideouts over the past decade. Over his 12-year career, he has recorded 984 receptions, 12,965 receiving yards, and 83 touchdowns. He has posted seven 1,000-yard seasons and has built a reputation as one of the most reliable hands in the NFL.
The Ravens’ receiving corps struggled at times in 2024, despite the emergence of young standout Zay Flowers. By adding Hopkins, Baltimore gains a proven veteran who can provide stability and leadership to the team’s passing attack. Alongside Flowers and Rashod Bateman, Hopkins gives Jackson a dependable target, particularly in crucial third-down and red-zone situations.
Hopkins spent the 2023 season with the Tennessee Titans after being released by the Arizona Cardinals. He put up respectable numbers despite inconsistent quarterback play, finishing the season with 56 receptions for 610 yards and five touchdowns. Midway through the 2024 season, the Titans traded him to the Kansas City Chiefs, where he played a secondary role but contributed to their playoff push.
The decision to sign Hopkins aligns with the Ravens’ continued commitment to surrounding Jackson with more weapons. After winning his second MVP award in 2023, Jackson’s development as a passer has been a focal point for the franchise. Adding Hopkins not only gives Jackson another talented option but also brings a veteran presence who can mentor younger receivers like Flowers and Bateman.
Baltimore’s offense, led by offensive coordinator Todd Monken, is expected to make full use of Hopkins’ route-running skills and ability to win contested catches. While he may not have the same speed and explosiveness he did in his prime, Hopkins remains an elite possession receiver who can move the chains and make difficult catches in traffic.
The Ravens have been active in free agency, making key additions to strengthen their roster for another deep playoff run. Baltimore finished the 2024 regular season as the AFC’s top seed but fell short in the postseason, fueling their desire to improve key areas of their team. Signing Hopkins demonstrates their urgency to capitalize on Jackson’s prime years and push for a Super Bowl.
With training camp still months away, the signing gives Hopkins ample time to build chemistry with Jackson and integrate into the offense. If he stays healthy and performs up to expectations, the deal could prove to be a bargain for Baltimore. Given his track record of success, Hopkins has the potential to be a game-changer for the Ravens in 2025.