Is the DeAndre Hopkins dream dead in Foxboro?
The New England Patriots reportedly called the Arizona Cardinals recently about a potential trade for the star wide receiver. With a clear need for a No. 1 wideout, plus the reasonable rumored asking price, New England seemed like a likely landing spot for Hopkins.
On Wednesday though, the Patriots addressed the receiver position by signing JuJu Smith-Schuster to a three-year contract worth $ 33 million. The MMQB's Albert Breer tweeted an explanation of what Smith-Schuster will bring to the table while noting the Pats "aren't in it for DeAndre Hopkins."
Stay in the game with the latest updates on your beloved Boston sports teams! Sign up here for our All Access Daily newsletter.
Meyers throws shade at Patriots in reaction to JuJu signing
It's unclear whether the Patriots are unwilling to pay the price for Hopkins or if the Smith-Schuster acquisition ended their pursuit of the three-time First-Team All-Pro. If it's the latter, that would be a bit of a head-scratcher.
Smith-Schuster replaces slot receiver Jakobi Meyers, who signed an identical contract with the Las Vegas Raiders in free agency. The Patriots wide receiving corps still needs a significant upgrade to help Mac Jones as the young quarterback enters a pivotal third season. The receiver depth chart after Smith-Schuster currently includes DeVante Parker, Tyquan Thornton, and Kendrick Bourne.
New England Patriots
Find the latest New England Patriots news, highlights, analysis and more with NBC Sports Boston.
Hopkins might be off the table, but the Patriots also reportedly called the Denver Broncos about a possible Jerry Jeudy deal. If New England does land a No. 1 wide receiver this offseason, it likely will be via trade as the free-agent class after Meyers and Smith-Schuster leaves plenty to be desired.
