DeAndre Hopkins Joins Patriots Camp at 34 to Explore Coaching Role
Updated
Updated · ESPN · Jul 24
DeAndre Hopkins Joins Patriots Camp at 34 to Explore Coaching Role
3 articles · Updated · ESPN · Jul 24
Summary
DeAndre Hopkins reported to New England's training camp in Foxborough as a temporary coaching and personnel observer, with Mike Vrabel saying the veteran will spend several days around the staff.
Vrabel said Hopkins asked to "hang out" and learn what post-playing work could look like, prompting the coach to clear the arrangement with the league before inviting him in.
The Patriots stressed Hopkins is not there as a player despite a crowded receiver room led by A.J. Brown, Romeo Doubs and DeMario Douglas.
Hopkins, 34, played 17 games for Baltimore last season with 22 catches for 330 yards and 2 touchdowns; over 13 NFL seasons he has 1,006 receptions, 13,295 yards and 85 scores.
Players already see value in the visit, with cornerback Marcus Jones saying Hopkins' route-running insight gives defensive backs a rare chance to learn directly from an elite receiver.