Tennessee Titans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins has made it clear that he embraces competition, especially with the team’s new signing, Calvin Ridley. Hopkins, who had a resurgent season in 2023, is ready to prove that he remains the Titans’ top receiver despite the new additions.
DeAndre Hopkins’ Competitive Spirit
Hopkins spoke about the Titans’ offseason additions, including receiver Tyler Boyd, during organized team activities (OTAs) this week. He sent a strong message to Ridley, emphasizing his competitive nature. “I am always competing,” Hopkins said, via Jim Wyatt of the Titans’ official team website.
Any time we get anyone who is a No. 1 receiver, my mindset is to go out and outcompete them, outdo them. I’ve always had that mindset, Kobe Bryant being my favorite athlete of all time. Any time I get a chance to compete against anyone I am trying to outcompete them, trying to outdo them. And that’s only going to make the team better.”
DeAndre Hopkins’ Impressive 2023 Season
In his debut campaign with Tennessee, Hopkins caught 75 passes for 1,057 yards and seven touchdowns. This performance marked a significant comeback after playing only 19 games during his final two years with the Arizona Cardinals in 2021 and 2022.
The 31-year-old veteran remains cautiously optimistic about the upcoming season. “I think this is one of the best wide receiver groups I’ve had the chance to play with on paper,” Hopkins said. “I could come up here and say a bunch, but we haven’t played a game yet. So, we’ll see how it goes once we hit the field.”
Calvin Ridley’s Arrival and Impact
Calvin Ridley, who joined the Titans from the Jacksonville Jaguars, posted similar numbers to Hopkins last season with 76 receptions for 1,016 yards and eight scores. The competition between Hopkins and Ridley will be one to watch as they vie for the top receiver role in Tennessee.
Building Chemistry with Quarterback Will Levis
The success of the Titans’ receiving corps will significantly depend on the performance of quarterback Will Levis, who is entering his first full season as Tennessee’s starter. Hopkins is committed to helping Levis succeed. “We have to be on the same page with Will,” Hopkins explained. “
We have to know what he is thinking, and what he is doing, and be able to take his criticism, and him being able to take our criticism. It doesn’t happen just on the field, you have to build that bond. It’s up to us to go out and help him be the best quarterback he can be.”
Tennessee Titans Potential for a Surprising Season
The Titans finished the previous season with a 6-11 record, but with their offseason moves, including the additions of Ridley and Boyd, they have the potential to be one of the surprise teams in the AFC in 2024. The development of chemistry between Levis and his receivers will be crucial to their success.
Tennessee Titans Future Ahead
As the Titans prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on the dynamic duo of DeAndre Hopkins and Calvin Ridley. Will they become a formidable force that terrorizes opposing secondaries? The answer will unfold as the season progresses and the Titans take to the field in September.
