Veteran wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins is exploring a potential coaching or player personnel role with the New England Patriots, according to head coach Mike Vrabel.
Hopkins was present at the Patriots' training camp on Friday morning. Vrabel, who coached Hopkins for one season with the Tennessee Titans in 2023, indicated that the receiver is considering transitioning into a coaching capacity or a position within player personnel.
Hopkins, a five-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro, has had a notable NFL career. He began with the Houston Texans (2013-2019), followed by three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals (2020-2022). After being released by Arizona, he signed with the Titans, who later traded him to the Kansas City Chiefs during the 2024 season. He spent the 2025 season with the Baltimore Ravens, recording 22 receptions for 330 yards and two touchdowns.
Across his career, Hopkins ranks 18th in NFL history with 13,295 regular-season receiving yards and is tied for 19th with 85 regular-season receiving touchdowns.
The Patriots, entering their second season under Vrabel as head coach, are preparing for the upcoming season after a 14-3 record in the previous year, which saw them reach Super Bowl LX. The team features second-year quarterback Drake Maye, who led the league in passer rating and completion percentage in 2025 and was the runner-up for NFL MVP.