The New England Patriots made it a priority this offseason to upgrade their wide receiver corps. The first big addition was signing Romeo Doubs to a four-year, $68 million contract. It was the largest deal they handed out during free agency.
However, New England didn't stop there. The Patriots later acquired A.J. Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles. In exchange, they gave up a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick.
Last season, Doubs and Brown combined for 133 receptions for 1,727 yards and 13 touchdowns. Both are key additions after the Patriots released Stefon Diggs, who in 2025 led the team in receptions (85) and receiving yards (1,013).
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While the Patriots have spent the offseason reshaping their receiver corps with proven playmakers, they're also leaning on experienced veterans in a different capacity. On Friday, New England head coach Mike Vrabel revealed that DeAndre Hopkins is at training camp, exploring a coaching career.
"DeAndre Hopkins is here visiting the Patriots, per Mike Vrabel, with Vrabel saying Hopkins is considering the possibility of a coaching career," ESPN's Mike Reiss wrote via an X post.
Hopkins, a five-time Pro Bowler, spent the 2025 season with the Baltimore Ravens and accumulated 22 receptions for 330 yards and two touchdowns. Currently a free agent, he has expressed interest in playing a 14th season.
Since making his debut in 2013, he has put together an impressive resume. In NFL history, he ranks 14th in receptions (1,006), 17th in receiving yards (13,295) and is tied for 14th in receiving touchdowns (85).
Whether or not he continues his playing career is uncertain; Hopkins is getting a crack at coaching with the Patriots. New England's rookies reported to training camp on Tuesday, while veterans were scheduled to arrive on Friday.
