Kyler Murray boost as $144 million wide receiver targets Vikings despite Bengals interest

DeAndre Hopkins is unlikely to return to the Baltimore Ravens.

The wideout is one of the many veterans available on the market after spending one season with the Ravens.

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Hopkins has enjoyed a successful career that has brought him $144 million, according to Spotrac, but it appears his window is closing.

He’s seen his production and usage decrease over the past two years, but can still make important plays when needed.

The 33-year-old played in a career-low 33% of offensive snaps, logging 22 catches for 33 yards and two touchdowns, while proving he was still a big-play threat, averaging 15 yards per catch.

He has no desire to retire just yet from his career which has included multiple iconic moments such as breaking DeAngelo Hall’s ankles in practice. 

In an exclusive interview with TMZ, Hopkins openly revealed where he wants to sign for the 2026 season, a scenario which would see him reunite with a former teammate who has also had a change of scenery this offseason.

“I really don’t think about it too much, I love hanging out with my kids, and with my family,” Hopkins told TMZ.

“I’ve always been a person who has had interests outside of catching a ball… but I still feel like I have got some ball left.

“Kyler [Murray]… Kyler, that’s my boy man, he is like family to me.

“I talked to him throughout the year, and I talked to him throughout the situation he went through this offseason.

“Whatever I can do for someone like that – If Kyler needed me, if the Vikings need me, they know I’ll be there.”

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Hopkins and Kyler Murray were teammates for the Arizona Cardinals between the 2020-22 seasons.

This offseason, Murray was released by the Cardinals, and picked up by the Minnesota Vikings, a move that caused Murray to shed tears in his press conference.

The combo of Hopkins and Justin Jefferson could be deadly in Minnesota, who will aim to return to the playoffs in 2026 after a disappointing campaign last year.

Hopkins’ cryptic tweet sparks Bengals rumors

Hopkins participated in the Fanatics Flag Football Classic on Saturday, which was originally scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia but moved to California amid rising tensions.

Hopkins linked up with Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow catching a long touchdown pass and posted a cryptic message on social media afterwards.

Cincinnati arguably has one of the best wideout duo’s in the league in Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, while Hopkins could earn playing time behind him.

The Bengals could use the reinforcements too, coming off a 6-11 season that included a 2-10 stretch.

Burrow was injured in Week 2 with a Grade 3 turf toe injury that forced them to make a move for Joe Flacco.

Hopkins is confident he has plenty left in the tank, and wherever he lands, he could be an excellent option and perfect mentor for any young receiver.

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