The Arizona Cardinals recently released DeAndre Hopkins, and some believe that the Los Angeles Chargers could make a move for the former All Pro. At the peak of his career, there was a case to be made that Hopkins was the best wide receiver in football. He’s not that good anymore, but he’s still a strong starter that can be a big part of the right passing attack. The only question is whether or not the Chargers are a smart fit for the former first-round pick.
Should the Los Angeles Chargers Sign DeAndre Hopkins?
What Hopkins Wants
Prior to his release, DeAndre Hopkins made an appearance on the I Am Athlete podcast to describe what he’d be hoping to see in a new organization. According to him, the most important characteristics of a new team are a stable organization, a quarterback that loves the game, and a great defense.
The Chargers aren’t necessarily the picture of organizational stability, but you could do a lot worse. Head coach Brandon Staley is entering his third season on the job and helped guide the team to the playoffs last year. While he is on the hot seat, the organization isn’t a dumpster fire by any stretch of the imagination.
The defense, meanwhile, was ok last year and should be better in 2023. The unit was slightly below-average last year, finishing 19th in EPA/play and 16th in DVOA. While the 2023 Chargers probably won’t be the second coming of the 2000 Ravens, they should improve on those mediocre rankings. The team invested multiple early draft picks in fixing the defense, so while the unit might not be a strength, it won’t be a liability.
Of course, the biggest draw for DeAndre Hopkins is the presence of Justin Herbert. The former first-round pick is one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL and DeAndre Hopkins himself said that he’d love to play with the Chargers quarterback.
DeAndre Hopkins was asked on @IAMATHLETEpod which QBs he'd love to have throwing him the ball. #Bills QB Josh Allen was quickly his first answer.
Jalen Hurts, Patrick Mahomes, Lamar Jackson and Justin Herbert rounded out his top-5.pic.twitter.com/gtepzf9JD4
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) May 22, 2023
Does DeAndre Hopkins Make Sense for the Chargers?
The Chargers can meet the demands of DeAndre Hopkins, but should Los Angeles pursue the wide receiver? After all, it takes two to tango, and there is a chance that the Chargers feel confident with the receivers currently on the roster.
If everyone is healthy, it’s hard to see how DeAndre Hopkins fits on this depth chart. Mike Williams and Keenan Allen are both above-average starters, and rookie Quentin Johnston has plenty of potential. Additionally, Hopkins’ physical skill set is a little redundant with Williams and Johnston on the roster.
Quentin Johnston is about to ball out !!! Just wait on it
pic.twitter.com/Yp6xHyiXN9— Coach K | Keith Sanchez (@TheTalentCode) May 17, 2023
Unfortunately, the Chargers might not be healthy. Keenan Allen missed half of the 2022 season and he isn’t getting any younger. Additionally, Mike Williams suffered a back injury late in the year that is still affecting him almost six months later. If the Chargers aren’t confident in the long-term health of either player, then perhaps they could go after DeAndre Hopkins.
Obviously, the Chargers are not the only team that are going to be interested in DeAndre Hopkins. Just about every other team in the league will at least show a passing interest in the wideout, but Los Angeles has the resources to go toe-to-toe with just about anyone in a bidding war.
As of this posting, the Chargers have $12.75 million in cap space, which far exceeds teams like the Buffalo Bills ($1.48 million) and Kansas City Chiefs ($650K). While there are a few competitive teams with more cap space, the Chargers should feel good about their odds of submitting a competitive offer.
Main Photo: Michael Chow – USA Today Sports
