Hopkins joins Patriots coaching staff in advisory role
DeAndre Hopkins is spending training camp with the New England Patriots in a coaching-oriented capacity, exploring opportunities after his 13-year NFL career rather than trying out as a receiver. Patriots coach Mike Vrabel said Hopkins is there to advise and observe, helping out offensive coaches and meeting with the personnel staff as he considers a future in coaching or other roles. Hopkins, 34, previously had standout seasons with the Texans and later played for the Ravens in 2025, recording modest totals that have spurred speculation about his post-playing path. Vrabel noted that Hopkins had reached out to join for a few days, with the league's approval, and Hopkins’ presence has been welcomed by teammates who see him as a potential future coach. Other reports reiterate Hopkins’ role as a visiting figure in camp, highlighting the possibility that his next step could be coaching rather than continuing to play.
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Left· 3 sources
“Wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins will be ‘helping out’ Patriots at training camp but is not trying out for the team”Boston Globe · Jul 24, 2026
Center· 2 sources
“Patriots react to having DeAndre Hopkins at training camp”The Republican (Masslive) · Jul 24, 2026
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