The Kansas City Chiefs wouldn’t necessarily stunt the growth of second-round draft pick Rashee Rice should they choose to sign free agent WR DeAndre Hopkins.
On Tuesday, several NFL analysts (such as Trey Wingo) speculated that Hopkins could be waiting on the Chiefs to free up enough salary-cap space in order to make him a competitive offer. Something in line with or better than what the New England Patriots and Tennessee Titans have offered. Kansas City, of course, wouldn’t be able to accomplish that without an extension for star defensive tackle Chris Jones, which seems to be trending in the right direction.
One of the biggest gripes to come up regarding a potential signing of Hopkins is the impact it could have on the development of rookie wide receiver Rashee Rice. Hopkins would add another cook to a kitchen that already has a wealth of talent — albeit unproven talent.
While the presence of Hopkins could jettison some opportunity in the interim, it might be of long-term benefit for the Chiefs and Rice. Speaking to media members shortly after his selection in the 2023 NFL draft, Rice was asked about the receiver that he models his game after.
“I’ll probably say DeAndre Hopkins just because we both attack the ball real
aggressive,” Rice said. “And then you never know what we can do when the ball’s in our hands.”
Outside of the opportunity to work beside the receiver whom he’s modeled his game after for his football-playing career, there is also a benefit to having two receivers who are alike. Hopkins notably isn’t a fan of practicing every day, and frankly, he probably doesn’t need to given his veteran status.
Having a player like Rice take some of Hopkins’ repetitions in practice during the regular season is the best of both worlds. Rice will be getting requisite training to prepare him for when he is needed, while the 31-year-old Hopkins will get the rest he needs to keep him fresh for a 17-game regular season and extended postseason in 2023.
These are the subtleties that could play into the Chiefs’ decision-making should they manage to secure the funds to bring Hopkins into the fold for the upcoming season.
