DeAndre Hopkins says he'll embrace his position as the new "O.G." in the Ravens wide receiver room, looking forward to helping his teammates any way he can.
With almost 13,000 receiving yards (12,965) and a five-time Pro Bowler, Hopkins is bringing wisdom along with his talents. He has defeated virtually any defensive strategy a wide receiver can encounter, and at age 32, he's looking forward to passing on his knowledge to teammates.
Speaking at Friday's introductory press conference, Hopkins said he wants to be a resource for Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, Tylan Wallace, Devontez Walker, or any teammates seeking advice.
"Those are some very talented young receivers," Hopkins said. "They're exciting to watch, but I don't know much about them outside of what I see on the football field. I'm just looking forward to hanging out and learning more about them."
"They're going to get open – like they have done the past couple of years – and hopefully I can give them a couple of little tricks to help them advance their game a little more."
When Hopkins met with the Baltimore media on Friday, he was coming straight from a workout that he had already squeezed in. That was telling. Hopkins doesn't believe in wasting time, and that approach has paid huge dividends for him.
He has seven 1,000-yard seasons, most recently in 2023 with the Tennessee Titans. His career has been one of consistency and longevity, and it has not been accidental.
"My workout routine has changed throughout the years, but it's definitely been a key part of me still being able to come out and play at a high level at the age of 32," Hopkins said. "I'm not sure why you wouldn't work out if you have a weight room this nice, or you have the chance to work out.
"I just like working when no one's looking, even if that's at my house at night. It's definitely been a key part of me still playing, also my diet. It's not just the workout, but it's everything else."
Hopkins is a student of the game, and while he possesses great hands and athleticism, he has never relied on just speed or hand strength. Precise route running, film study, and respect for his craft have all contributed to his success.
"I've never been a 4.3 or 4.4 [40-yard dash] guy, but I'm able to make plays on the ball and get open, and contested catches – I feel like that's been something that I've been able to excel in," Hopkins said. "I would say my knowledge of defenses as well.
"Playing 13 years in the NFL, you learn defensive coverages and how to get open, and you kind of know what the defense is doing sometimes pre-snap."
Imagine Flowers talking to Hopkins about beating press coverage, or Hopkins speaking with Bateman about positioning his body to shield defenders.
Those are conversations Hopkins looks forward to having, but he's not in Baltimore strictly to be a mentor. He plans to be a playmaker as well. After reaching the Super Bowl less than two months ago with the Kansas City Chiefs but losing, Hopkins thirsts for the Lombardi Trophy. He wants to do whatever it takes to help Baltimore be the last team standing.
"I have a lot of lessons that I can give to a lot of players, Hopkins said. "I felt like I can give a lot – especially to this receivers group and guys in the locker room as well.
"Especially, on this team, being in the (divisional playoff) game that they were in last year – almost about to basically play us (in Kansas City) – but almost doesn't get it done in the NFL…if someone asks, obviously I'm here to help and make everyone better."
