DeAndre Hopkins could very well be the best wideout in the NFL, but he could could still learn a lot from future Hall of Famer, Larry Fitzgerald
Putting up great, consistent numbers as a wide receiver when you’ve had 10 different quarterbacks throw to you is no easy feat. Since being drafted out of Clemson in 2013, that’s exactly what DeAndre Hopkins has had to endure.
In 110 games, Hopkins has collected 632 receptions, 8,602 yards and 54 touchdowns. Great numbers, considering that until DeShaun Watson, Houston certainly had a problem in finding at the very least a decent signal caller.
Certainly thinking that those numbers could be much higher had Hopkins had some early consistency is warranted. Right now, the great debate is: “Who’s the best receiver in the NFL? DeAndre Hopkins, Michael Thomas, or Julio Jones?”
Hopkins recently saying, “I definitely think I’m the best. … I know I’m the best.” Before dropping the fact that he’s had inconsistency at the QB position since coming into the league.
One could make a great case for all three. But let’s not forget who’s had an even tougher road to glory in the NFL — Larry Fitzgerald. The quiet greatest of Fitzgerald could certainly bode well for someone like Hopkins. Not once has Fitzgerald complained about the QB situations he’s had to endure. Not once has he made excuses for lack of production or a Super Bowl ring. Not once.
DeAndre Hopkins was certainly the steal of the NFL off-season, and paring him with perhaps one of the greatest wide receivers of all-time is great for all parties involved. With Kliff Kingsbury calling the plays and a young baller in Kyler Murray throwing darts, there is no ceiling for this team.
With would could very well be Fitzgerald’s swan song season, the Cardinals have found the perfect successor. Hopkins will learn a lot from Fitzgerald. And when the 2020 season comes to an end, there will be no debate as to who the best receiver in the NFL is, because it will certainly be DeAndre Hopkins, with the help and tutelage of the great Larry Fitzgerald.