NFL Trade Rumors: Former Cardinals GM reveals why DeAndre Hopkins hasn’t been traded yet
DeAndre Hopkins of the Arizona Cardinals has been available on the trade block since the start of the offseason, but no team has been able to acquire him thus far. This has raised concerns among the Cardinals franchise, who have been unable to find a suitor for their star receiver.
Due to the inability to find a trade, the Cardinals could be forced to release Hopkins. Recently, former Cardinals general manager Steve Keim talked about why the franchise hasn't been able to find a trade partner for Hopkins:
"They’re probably going to have to come to understand that they’re probably not going to get as much as they would if he was a younger player or his contract was considerably lower, where you could get him for a second-round pick.
"It could end up being a second- or third-day draft pick to really get it done. Probably --- get a new deal done." Keim said, "Here’s the problem, The problem is his current contract."
DeAndre Hopkins is projected to earn around $19.4 million next season, which is a massive amount for any team to handle. As a result, teams are playing a waiting game on him, as they believe that the Arizona Cardinals will end up releasing him.
Since Kyler Murray is expected to miss a significant amount due to his ACL injury, there is no incentive for the Cardinals to keep Hopkins. A big decision could be made in the coming few days, and everyone will be keeping tabs on it.
Who should make a move for DeAndre Hopkins? 🚀 👀
"I'll throw a flier team out there ... the Los Angeles Chargers. ... I match DeAndre Hopkins with Mike Williams and Keenan [Allen]. Now we're talking about the ability to push the ball down field." —@danorlovsky7 https://t.co/39l5G4q3WK
DeAndre Hopkins is still a target for multiple contenders
If DeAndre Hopkins gets released by the Cardinals, the Buffalo Bills, Kansas City Chiefs, and the New England Patriots could start pushing hard to land him.
Despite missing time due to his suspension last season, Hopkins had 64 catches for 717 yards and three touchdowns in nine games. He can still play at an elite level, and if he is available for a discount, a team with a quality quarterback can bring out the best of him.