When DeAndre Hopkins tours the New England Patriots’ facility and meets the coaching staff, it will be the first time he meets one-on-one with Bill O’Brien since the 2020 blockbuster trade.
O’Brien, then serving as the head coach and general manager of the Houston Texans, traded Hopkins to the Arizona Cardinals. Rival teams blasted O’Brien for the trade, criticizing him for receiving little in return for an All-Pro wide receiver.
- DeAndre Hopkins stats (career): 853 receptions, 11,298 receiving yards, 71 touchdowns
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Many believed O’Brien’s motivations behind the deal went beyond football. Hopkins wanted a new contract and former wide receiver Michael Irvin alleged that O’Brien once compared Hopkins to Aaron Hernandez. It was only part of a player-coach relationship that many around the league believed was rocky and could cost New England a shot at landing the star wideout.
However, that might no longer be the case. Years after the reported bad blood between the former head coach and All-Pro offensive weapon, it appears the situation has improved and that could prove significant for New England.
According to ESPN’s Dianna Russini, there’s no animosity between O’Brien and Hopkins. In spite of rumors suggesting there was a toxic relationship in Houston, the two seem to be in a much better place now and are focused on doing whatever is best for their career.
New England can offer Hopkins some of the things he’s looking for. The Patriots don’t have a true No. 1 wide receiver, a position that Hopkins could play and thrive in next season. Furthermore, they can offer the organizational stability that Hopkins seems to be prioritizing.
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However, money might be the ultimate decision-maker for Hopkins. Even if his two-day visit in New England goes well, the biggest factor will be the contract. If the Patriots aren’t willing to offer Hopkins the guaranteed money he’s looking for, a better relationship with O’Brien and a respect for the Patriots’ organization won’t be enough to land him.