The New England Patriots and head coach Bill Belichick have received some good news ahead of their pursuit of superstar wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins.
The Arizona Cardinals have been rumoured to be shopping Hopkins after hiring a new head coach and looking like they're planning to rebuild their roster - moving on from a number of players.
Belichick has long been an admirer of Hopkins and could be even more tempted to make a move for the receiver after learning he could be available for just a second-round pick.
Hopkins has been one of the best players at the position in the last eight years, and looks to be poised to continue that if he is traded to the right team this off-season.
Belichick is in the market for a receiver, and is a known fan of Hopkins. This week, a clip has been posted across social media of the two embracing during a game last season. In the game, Bill Belichick tells the receiver: "I'm glad we only have to play against you once every four years".
Although Hopkins is now 30 years old, acquiring him for just a second round pick would be seen as a steal - with players of his calibre very rarely becoming available.
Hopkins was traded to the Cardinals for a second-round pick and running back David Johnson, in one of the more lopsided trades in recent history with Hopkins worth much more than what the team paid.
The wide receiver is yet to win a Super Bowl in his career, and would greatly aid the Patriots search to get back atop of the NFL's teams, while giving quarterback Mac Jones a big-time target.
The Patriots did splash the cash on a free agent wide receiver this week, bringing in JuJu Smith-Schuster to a three-year, $33 million deal aid Jones - who has been without a true go-to option throughout his career so far.
The Pats also signed tight end Mike Gesicki from rival Miami Dolphins on Friday - one of the better receiving threats at the position in the league as they look to contend with the Dolphins, Jets and Bills in their division.
