**Hopkins Trade Explained: Contract & Stats Impact**

ZAGO 𝕸𝖊𝖉𝖎𝖆

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Post on Oct 24, 2024

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Hopkins Trade Explained: Contract & Stats Impact

The blockbuster trade that sent DeAndre Hopkins to the Arizona Cardinals in 2020 sent shockwaves through the NFL. This move not only altered the landscape of the AFC South but also had a significant impact on both the Houston Texans and the Cardinals. In this article, we'll delve into the details of the trade, examine the contract implications, and analyze the statistical impact on both teams.

The Trade: A New Chapter for Hopkins

The trade itself was a complex one, involving multiple draft picks. The Cardinals sent a 2020 second-round pick, a 2021 fourth-round pick, and a 2021 fourth-round pick (originally acquired from the Patriots) to the Texans in exchange for DeAndre Hopkins, a 2020 fourth-round pick, and a 2021 fourth-round pick.

This trade was driven by a combination of factors:

• Hopkins' Contract: The Texans were looking to shed salary and get younger. Hopkins was coming off a huge season and had a large contract, making him a costly asset for a team in rebuilding mode.
• Cardinals' Need: The Cardinals were in desperate need of a top-tier wide receiver to complement Kyler Murray. Hopkins provided the perfect solution, bringing elite route-running and big-play ability.

The Contract: A Long-Term Investment

Hopkins signed a four-year, $81.5 million extension with the Cardinals in 2020, making him the highest-paid receiver in the NFL at the time. This extension locked him in with the Cardinals for the long haul and demonstrated their commitment to building a championship contender around him. The contract also included a no-trade clause, giving Hopkins significant control over his future.

Stats Impact: A Look at the Numbers

DeAndre Hopkins' impact on both the Texans and the Cardinals was immediate and significant.

Texans' Perspective:

• The Texans struggled in the passing game after Hopkins' departure, failing to establish a consistent receiving threat.
• The Texans finished 4-12 in 2020, their worst season since 2013.

Cardinals' Perspective:

• Hopkins quickly formed a dynamic duo with Kyler Murray, becoming a dominant force in the Cardinals' offense.
• He led the NFL in receiving yards in 2020 and helped lead the Cardinals to the playoffs for the first time since 2015.

Overall Impact:

• The trade served as a turning point for both teams.
• The Texans entered a rebuilding phase while the Cardinals emerged as a legitimate contender.

Conclusion: A Game-Changing Move

The DeAndre Hopkins trade was a landmark event in the NFL. It showcased the importance of a star wide receiver in today's passing-heavy league and highlighted the complexities of player contracts and roster management. The trade's impact continues to be felt today, with both the Texans and the Cardinals navigating different paths in their respective journeys.