A veteran wide receiver with over 13,000 career receiving yards has openly expressed interest in joining the Cincinnati Bengals to team up with Joe Burrow. This has added fuel to speculation that the Bengals could make a splash move in the 2026 offseason to bolster their passing attack.
The wideout’s recent social media activity and comments have kept his name firmly in the headlines as free agency continues and teams look to upgrade their receiving corps.
Cincinnati Bengals, Joe Burrow
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) throws a touchdown pass to Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase (1) in the first quarter of the NFL game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati on Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024.
Bengals Targeted by 13,000-Yard WR Who Wants to Play With Joe Burrow – Latest Update
That player is DeAndre Hopkins, the five-time Pro Bowl and five-time All-Pro receiver who spent the 2025 season with the Baltimore Ravens on a one-year deal.
After the Ravens finished 8-9 and missed the playoffs, Hopkins made his frustrations with the offense known in a pointed March 16, 2026, post on X.
Responding to a Ravens reporter’s suggestion that Baltimore should re-sign him, Hopkins fired back:
“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!”
The comment referenced a highlight of Hopkins’ one-handed touchdown catch in the season opener against the Buffalo Bills — one of the few times he saw significant red-zone usage. The post was widely interpreted as a direct critique of the Ravens’ offensive scheme and play-calling, which Hopkins believed underutilized his skill set despite his proven productivity when targeted.
DeAndre Hopkins’ 2025 Season and Frustration in Baltimore
Hopkins, now 33, finished the 2025 campaign with 22 receptions for 330 yards and two scores. His public frustration centered on a lack of opportunities in scoring situations, a role he has historically excelled in throughout his career.
The Bengals, who already boast Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, could theoretically provide Hopkins with a high-volume red-zone role opposite those two stars, giving Joe Burrow another reliable weapon in the end zone.
Why the Bengals Could Be a Logical Landing Spot
Pro Football Focus recently included Hopkins on its list of the highest-graded offensive free agents heading into the 2026 cycle. While PFF named the Tennessee Titans as his top potential fit (due to his prior success there in 2023–2024 and the need to mentor rookie QB Cam Ward), the Bengals remain a logical dark-horse destination.
Cincinnati’s offense struggled with consistency in 2025, and adding a proven red-zone threat like Hopkins could address a clear need without breaking the bank.
Hopkins has never played with a quarterback of Burrow’s caliber, and pairing his veteran presence with Chase and Higgins could create one of the most dangerous receiving trios in the NFL. At this stage of his career, Hopkins is likely seeking a one-year “prove-it” deal with a contender — a role Cincinnati could easily offer.
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