Tennessee Titans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins nearly joined the Kansas City Chiefs before landing in Tennessee.

DeAndre Hopkins, the talented wide receiver currently with the Tennessee Titans, has had an illustrious career marked by exceptional talent and significant achievements. Recently, it was revealed that he nearly joined the Kansas City Chiefs before ultimately signing with the Titans. This revelation has ignited discussions about what could have been for both teams, as Hopkins would have added immense value to the Chiefs’ already potent offense.

The Chiefs’ interest in Hopkins became public when NFL insider Jeremy Fowler shared details during an appearance on ESPN’s SportsCenter. According to Fowler, Kansas City “badly” wanted to secure the star pass-catcher’s services after he was released by the Arizona Cardinals in May 2023. The Chiefs, known for their offensive firepower under head coach Andy Reid and quarterback Patrick Mahomes, saw an opportunity to bolster their receiving corps. However, despite their strong interest, they were unable to finalize a deal, leading to Hopkins signing a two-year, $26 million contract with the Titans instead.

This near-miss for the Chiefs raises intriguing questions about the potential impact Hopkins could have had on their offense. With a talented group of players around him, including Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and a host of other capable receivers, Hopkins would have found himself in a high-octane environment conducive to offensive production. His unique skill set—combining size, speed, and exceptional route-running ability—would have made him a perfect fit alongside Mahomes, further enhancing an already elite passing game.

As the season progressed, it became evident that the Chiefs would have benefited from adding Hopkins, particularly given the injury struggles they faced with their receiving corps. With both Rashee Rice and Marquise Brown placed on injured reserve, the Chiefs were left scrambling for depth at the wide receiver position. This scenario only fueled speculation that Kansas City might still explore the possibility of acquiring Hopkins, especially as the trade deadline looms on November 5. Fowler mentioned that the Chiefs might at least “make the call” regarding Hopkins, although he did not confirm any definitive interest. Given the circumstances, it would be logical for Kansas City to investigate their options, especially with a player of Hopkins’ caliber potentially available.

Hopkins has experienced a resurgence in his career during his time with the Titans. In his first season with Tennessee, he notched an impressive 75 receptions for 1,057 yards and seven touchdowns. This marked a significant turnaround after a couple of challenging years with the Cardinals, where he was limited to just 19 games in total during the 2021 and 2022 seasons. The Titans were hopeful that Hopkins would be the spark their offense needed, and for a time, he delivered on that promise, showcasing his ability to perform at a high level despite the challenges surrounding him.

However, as the current season unfolded, Hopkins’ production has dipped significantly. Through the first four games of the 2024 season, he managed only 10 catches for 121 yards and a single touchdown. Much of this decline can be attributed to several factors, including inconsistent quarterback play and an offensive line that has struggled mightily, resulting in the Titans ranking 28th in total offense. The inability to create a consistent passing game has stifled Hopkins’ opportunities and hampered his impact on the field.

At 32 years old, there is an undeniable sense that Hopkins may be losing a step. While he remains a formidable receiver with an impressive track record, the transition into the latter stages of a player’s career often brings questions about longevity and effectiveness. Injuries have plagued him in recent years, and it’s clear that sustaining the same level of production he enjoyed earlier in his career is a challenge. Despite these concerns, his experience and veteran savvy continue to make him a valuable asset for any team.

Hopkins is a five-time Pro Bowler, a testament to his excellence over the years, particularly during his time with the Houston Texans from 2013 to 2019. His ability to make contested catches, run precise routes, and create separation has made him one of the most respected receivers in the league. He has consistently been a game-changer and a reliable target, qualities that any offense would covet.

The prospect of Hopkins joining the Chiefs not only highlights the level of interest Kansas City had in him but also raises questions about how he would have integrated into their system. With Mahomes at the helm, the Chiefs’ offense is built on explosive plays and creativity. Having a receiver like Hopkins could have opened up even more possibilities for the Chiefs, giving Mahomes another elite option to target in critical situations. His presence could have drawn coverage away from Kelce, allowing the tight end to exploit mismatches while also providing Mahomes with a reliable outlet.

As the Titans prepare for their Week 5 bye, they must address the challenges they face on offense. The coaching staff will need to find ways to maximize Hopkins’ contributions while also developing the rest of their receiving corps. While it’s crucial to evaluate the struggles of the offensive line and quarterback play, finding creative ways to get Hopkins involved in the game plan will be essential for Tennessee’s success moving forward.

The near acquisition of Hopkins by the Chiefs may ultimately serve as a reminder of the fluid nature of player movement in the NFL. Teams are constantly evaluating their rosters and seeking opportunities to improve. The speculation surrounding Hopkins’ potential move to Kansas City reflects the broader trend of high-profile players changing teams and the impact those moves can have on a franchise’s trajectory.

As the trade deadline approaches, the Chiefs may find themselves in a position where they must consider adding another receiver, especially if injuries continue to impact their depth. While the likelihood of acquiring Hopkins may seem uncertain, the Chiefs are known for making bold moves to secure talent. Should they choose to pursue him, it could reignite conversations about the potential of an explosive offense that features both Mahomes and Hopkins.

In the broader context of the NFL, the landscape is always shifting. Players like Hopkins, who have proven themselves time and again, are coveted by teams looking to gain a competitive edge. The decisions made by franchises in the lead-up to the trade deadline can alter the course of a season, and the impact of those choices often reverberates through the league. For now, DeAndre Hopkins remains a Titan, but the possibility of a future with the Chiefs looms, serving as a reminder of how quickly circumstances can change in the world of professional football.

As the Titans and Chiefs navigate their respective challenges, the story of DeAndre Hopkins continues to unfold. Whether he ultimately remains in Tennessee or finds himself in a different uniform, one thing is certain: his talent and experience will always be in demand. The intrigue surrounding his career trajectory serves as a testament to the ongoing evolution of the NFL and the players who shape its narrative. For fans and analysts alike, the next chapter in Hopkins’ journey is one to watch closely, especially as the November trade deadline approaches and the potential for movement heats up.