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The Carolina Panthers may not be exactly what DeAndre Hopkins is looking for. Nonetheless, they could still factor into the free-agent wideout’s search for a new home.
On Friday, Hopkins was released by the Arizona Cardinals—opening up the entire market for the three-time First-team All-Pro. And according to Around the NFL writer Nick Shook, that market should include the Panthers.
Logically, Hopkins probably doesn’t want to play for a team that isn’t a true threat to win a Super Bowl right now. But there’s something enticing about playing with the No. 1 overall pick who happens to be a Heisman Trophy winner. Bryce Young’s arrival should solve the Panthers’ quarterback conundrum — that’s the hope, at least — and Carolina could use a veteran who can fill the need for a No. 1 receiver.
The Panthers also have plenty of cap space to work with, currently standing second with $27.3 million. Money wouldn’t be an issue, and kicking in a few extra million to sweeten the pot makes sense when it comes to reeling in a big fish.
The big fish has already stated that he’s hoping to play for one of five star quarterbacks—Buffalo’s Josh Allen, Philadelphia’s Jalen Hurts, Kansas City’s Patrick Mahomes, Baltimore’s Lamar Jackson and Los Angeles’ Justin Herbert. Plus, Hopkins said he’s also beyond the days of playing with a young passer.
But since the Panthers have a special young passer, and quite a bit of cash to burn, perhaps D-Hop will consider hopping back home.
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