DeAndre Hopkins clears up his NFL future

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

DeAndre Hopkins clears up his NFL future

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Aug 1, 2026 12:31 PM ET

DeAndre Hopkins is insisting he is not finished playing in the NFL despite taking a college football coaching job.

Hopkins took to X on Saturday to clear up questions about his NFL status after he joined Georgia Tech’s coaching staff. The longtime wide receiver offered up a recruiting pitch, but also said he is not done playing professionally.

“I Haven’t retired from the @NFL … But if you’re a WR and you want to be great, come to @GeorgiaTechFB,” Hopkins wrote.

I Haven’t retired from the @NFL … But if you're a WR and you want to be great, come to @GeorgiaTechFB
— Deandre Hopkins (@DeAndreHopkins) August 1, 2026

Hopkins briefly spent time in New England Patriots camp as a coach last week, then promptly accepted a role on Georgia Tech’s staff. That raised questions about whether he is done playing or not, since he sounded interested in continuing his NFL career earlier in the offseason. Ultimately, however, no offers came his way.

The 34-year-old is certainly still young enough to play. He spent last season with the Baltimore Ravens , but only caught 22 passes for 330 yards and two touchdowns. He suggested that the Ravens did not utilize him enough, and it’s possible he would rather just go into coaching rather than play a bit part role in someone’s offense in 2026.

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