DeAndre Hopkins had a bad season with the Baltimore Ravens in the 2025 regular season. The franchise finished with an 8-9 record and missed out on the playoffs for the first time since 2021, and placed second in the AFC North division.
Hopkins is currently a free agent after his one-year deal with the Ravens expired. Waiting to join another franchise, the veteran recently talked about how underutilized he was by his previous franchise.
DeAndre Hopkins points out Ravens usage of him
Hopkins appeared in all 17 regular season games, but was mainly used in a depth role instead of a starter. He logged just 39 targets, catching 22 of those for 330 yards and two touchdowns. Now, he is an unrestricted free agent, and he has responded on social media.
Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Deandre Hopkins
Jan 4, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Deandre Hopkins (10) walks to the field to play the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
A highlight reel of his acrobatic Week 1 one-handed touchdown grab against the Buffalo Bills recently went viral. The post said that the Ravens should consider to bring back Hopkins if they are looking for a veteran wide receiver. Hopkins shared that post, and had some words about how he was underutilized by the franchise.
He wrote, “How many times after this do you think I was used in the red zone? When targeted I’m still one of the most productive but never complained with my snaps & never will. Facts!”
According to data from Pro Football Reference, Hopkins received only three targets inside the 20-yard line all year, converting zero into receptions or yards. His two touchdowns came early in the season, and was never given a chance again despite his experience. Despite this, the player never complained about playing time, and remains optimistic about returning to the field. There is a lot of speculation about where he will play next.
DeAndre Hopkins next plans in 2026
The five-time Pro Bowler is currently a free agent, but does not plan to retire yet. In a January 2026 interview on the Ravens’ “The Lounge” podcast, he said, “I definitely want to play. I know I want to play one more year for sure.”
The 33-year-old will no longer be a starter, but could prove to be cheap and depth player with his vast experience. A return to the Ravens could still happen, while other landing spots include the Tennessee Titans, the Los Angeles Rams, the Pittsburgh Steelers among others. There is still no strong contact with any team yet, and he will have to wait for any offers to come in.
It remains to be seen whether DeAndre Hopkins returns to the field ahead of the 2026 NFL season.