Hopkins' '22 Feeling: Did He Cost Chiefs?

ZAGO 𝕸𝖊𝖉𝖎𝖆

You need 3 min read

·

Post on Oct 24, 2024

41 visitor like this post

Share

Hopkins' '22 Feeling: Did He Cost the Chiefs?

The 2022 NFL season was a roller coaster ride for the Kansas City Chiefs, and the performance of their wide receiver corps was a key factor in their journey. While Patrick Mahomes continued to put up gaudy numbers, the absence of Tyreek Hill left a void that was never fully filled. Enter JuJu Smith-Schuster, who signed a one-year deal with the Chiefs, and Marquez Valdes-Scantling, who arrived via free agency from the Green Bay Packers. Both players were tasked with stepping into the shoes of the departed Hill, and their performances left fans wondering if they had the firepower to get the Chiefs back to the Super Bowl.

However, one name that consistently popped up in conversations about the Chiefs' offense was that of DeAndre Hopkins. The Arizona Cardinals' star receiver was entering a contract year, and whispers of a potential trade to Kansas City began to circulate. Hopkins, a four-time Pro Bowler and a three-time All-Pro, would have been a game-changer for the Chiefs, providing Mahomes with a reliable target who could stretch the field and create mismatches.

So, did the Chiefs miss out on a golden opportunity by not acquiring Hopkins? Let's delve into the potential impact Hopkins could have had on the Chiefs' season, and explore the factors that may have prevented a deal from happening.

The "What If" Scenario: Hopkins' Potential Impact on the Chiefs

If Hopkins had joined the Chiefs in 2022, he would have instantly become their top receiving threat. His ability to win one-on-one matchups, his sure hands, and his knack for making big plays downfield would have been a valuable asset for Mahomes and the Chiefs' offense.

Here's how Hopkins' presence might have impacted the Chiefs' 2022 campaign:

• Increased Passing Yards and Touchdowns: With a dominant receiver like Hopkins, the Chiefs' passing offense could have reached even greater heights.
• Improved Red Zone Efficiency: Hopkins is known for his ability to make contested catches in tight spaces, which would have been a major boost in the red zone.
• Reduced Pressure on Other Receivers: The presence of Hopkins would have taken some of the pressure off Smith-Schuster and Valdes-Scantling, allowing them to operate more freely and potentially blossom in their new roles.

Why Didn't the Chiefs Trade for Hopkins?

While Hopkins' arrival would have been a dream scenario for the Chiefs, several factors might have prevented a trade from materializing.

• Salary Cap Concerns: Hopkins' contract carried a hefty salary cap hit, and the Chiefs were already dealing with a tight cap situation. They may have been reluctant to take on his substantial salary.
• Trade Package Demands: The Cardinals likely demanded a significant trade package for a player of Hopkins' caliber, something the Chiefs may not have been willing to part with.
• Potential Off-Field Issues: Hopkins was suspended for the first six games of the 2022 season due to a violation of the league's performance-enhancing drug policy. The Chiefs may have been wary of his off-field history.

The Bottom Line

It's impossible to say with certainty whether acquiring Hopkins would have guaranteed a Super Bowl victory for the Chiefs. However, his presence would have undoubtedly made their offense more explosive and balanced. In a tight AFC West race and a competitive playoff picture, any edge could have been crucial. While the Chiefs ultimately fell short of their goal, the question remains: did they miss out on a golden opportunity by not bringing Hopkins to Kansas City?

The answer, as with many aspects of the NFL, is complex and open to interpretation. One thing is certain: the possibility of Hopkins joining the Chiefs was a captivating storyline, and it continues to generate debate among fans and analysts alike.