DeAndre Hopkins in KC: Fantasy Film Room
The Kansas City Chiefs landed a big-name receiver in DeAndre Hopkins this offseason, adding a veteran presence and proven talent to their already potent offense. But how will Hopkins fit into the Chiefs' offensive scheme and what does it mean for his fantasy value? Let's take a look at some film and see what we can glean about Hopkins' potential in Kansas City.
The Hopkins-Mahomes Connection
The first thing to consider is the quarterback situation. Patrick Mahomes is arguably the best quarterback in the NFL and has a proven ability to elevate receivers. Hopkins has shown his ability to dominate with elite quarterbacks like Deshaun Watson in Houston and Kyler Murray in Arizona. This dynamic duo has all the ingredients for a successful partnership, with both players possessing elite skillsets.
How Does Hopkins Fit?
The Chiefs' offense is predicated on a quick-hitting passing game, often utilizing screen passes and short routes. Hopkins excels in these scenarios, with his ability to create separation and make contested catches. He can be a reliable target for Mahomes, particularly in the red zone where he can utilize his size and route-running ability to exploit mismatches.
Potential Concerns
While the potential for Hopkins to thrive in Kansas City is high, there are some concerns to consider:
- Competition: The Chiefs already have a talented group of receivers in Travis Kelce, Kadarius Toney, and Skyy Moore. This could potentially limit Hopkins' target share, especially early on.
- Age: At 31, Hopkins is entering the latter stages of his career, and questions about his durability might arise.
Analyzing the Film
Examining Hopkins' performance in recent years provides valuable insights into his current skillset:
- Route Running: Hopkins remains a master of route running, displaying exceptional precision and ability to manipulate defenders. His ability to break off routes and create separation will be a key factor in his success with Mahomes.
- Hands: Hopkins has consistently shown reliable hands throughout his career, rarely dropping passes. This is an essential trait for a receiver in a fast-paced offense like the Chiefs.
- Yards After Catch (YAC): While Hopkins may not be known for his explosiveness, he possesses the necessary vision and elusiveness to gain valuable YAC, making him a threat to score from anywhere on the field.
Final Verdict: Fantasy Outlook
Despite the potential for shared targets and age concerns, DeAndre Hopkins has the potential to be a valuable asset for fantasy owners. He will be a key player in the Chiefs' offense, and his ability to dominate in the red zone and generate yards after catch makes him a strong candidate for WR2 status in fantasy football.
Overall, the addition of DeAndre Hopkins to the Chiefs' offense is a significant upgrade and should be a fantasy football boon for both the player and the team. Keep an eye on how the targets are distributed early in the season, but expect Hopkins to be a consistent contributor for fantasy owners.