DeAndre Hopkins got a chance to see how things work behind the scenes with the New England Patriots, spending several days around the team during training camp. The veteran wide receiver joined the coaching and scouting staffs last week and was also on the field for all four practices before the team’s scheduled day off Wednesday.
Hopkins worked with wide receivers coach Todd Downing and spent time around the Patriots’ receiving group during his short stay.
His time in New England was always expected to be brief, and Mike Vrabel confirmed that the visit had come to an end before Thursday’s practice at Gillette Stadium.
"It was a great experience," Vrabel said, per PFT. "Hop's not here, but it was a great experience for, I think, all of us."
Hopkins’ visit gave him a closer look at coaching and scouting, but another opportunity now appears to be taking shape for the NFL star.
According to CBS Sports' Matt Zenitz and Chris Hummer, Hopkins is currently expected to join Georgia Tech’s offensive staff. Hopkins reportedly spent time with the Yellow Jackets in Atlanta this week, with his relationship with offensive coordinator George Godsey believed to have played a key role in the expected move.
The potential move would bring Hopkins back to Georgia Tech, this time as a coach rather than a player. He has yet to officially announce his retirement, but his recent time around NFL coaches and his expected move to the Yellow Jackets suggest he is considering what comes next after his playing career.
Hopkins entered the NFL as a first-round pick out of Clemson in 2013 and went on to become one of the league’s most productive receivers.
He spent his best years with the Houston Texans, earning five Pro Bowl selections and five All-Pro honors while topping 1,000 receiving yards six times and recording double-digit touchdown catches in three seasons.
Across 13 NFL seasons with five franchises, Hopkins finished with 1,006 receptions for 13,295 yards and 85 touchdowns.
