The Baltimore Ravens aim to clear a major hurdle in 2025. After coming close to reaching the Super Bowl in recent seasons, they’ve repeatedly stumbled against AFC powerhouses like the Kansas City Chiefs and the Buffalo Bills. This year, fans believe a key veteran addition could help transform the offense. Earlier in the offseason, wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins raised eyebrows with a surprising response when asked about his role in Baltimore’s system.
While chatting with cornerback Marlon Humphrey and a strength coach this offseason, DeAndre Hopkins was asked what he thought of the Ravens before joining the team. His response surprised both of them.
Feb 2, 2025; Kenner, LA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (8) exits the plane after arriving at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
Feb 2, 2025; Kenner, LA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (8) exits the plane after arriving at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
“It seems like there’s been a piece that’s been missing. I could be that addition. I could not be that addition,” Hopkins said.
The Ravens added Hopkins during NFL free agency this spring, signing him to a one-year, $6 million deal.
Deandre Hopkins impact with the Ravens
Dec 8, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (8) celebrates after scoring against the Los Angeles Chargers during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
Dec 8, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (8) celebrates after scoring against the Los Angeles Chargers during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
Hopkins’ impact in his first year with the Ravens will likely hinge on the trust he builds with Lamar Jackson. His career has largely been defined by his ability to haul in contested catches, often turning risky throws into big gains.
Between 2017 and 2020, DeAndre Hopkins earned four consecutive Pro Bowl selections while leading the NFL with 12 touchdown catches on tight-window throws—passes made with less than one yard of separation from the nearest defender. Since debuting in 2015, Hopkins has recorded 84 contested catches, the fifth-most among all active players.
Since the NFL began tracking separation stats in 2016, DeAndre Hopkins has averaged 2.54 yards of separation. In contrast, Lamar Jackson targeted receivers who averaged 4.26 yards of separation last season—the highest mark in the league.
Nov 29, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (8) is unable to make a catch during the second half against the Las Vegas Raiders at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
Nov 29, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (8) is unable to make a catch during the second half against the Las Vegas Raiders at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
Hopkins and Lamar Jackson may need some time to develop on-field chemistry, especially given their contrasting play styles—Jackson favors receivers with more separation, while Hopkins thrives on contested catches.
However, Hopkins joked he’s well-equipped for the adjustment, having caught passes from 19 different quarterbacks over 12 seasons. His experience with a wide range of QB styles, from Matt Schaub to Patrick Mahomes, could help fast-track the process.
If Hopkins and Jackson stay healthy and build chemistry early, they could connect consistently within the first month. The Ravens need to secure a high playoff seed and finally show they can win when it matters.