Ravens coach Harbaugh sparks excitement: DeAndre Hopkins poised for resurgence
The Baltimore Ravens have brought in five-time Pro Bowler DeAndre Hopkins, hoping to infuse both skill and experience into their roster. While his presence is felt in the locker room, the on-field production has yet to match expectations this season. In 13 games, Hopkins has recorded just 17 receptions for 257 yards and two touchdowns, numbers that hardly reflect his storied career.
Harbaugh on Hopkins’ Role
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh recently addressed the team’s plans for utilizing Hopkins more effectively in their offense. “I’d like to be using DeAndre [Hopkins] more,” Harbaugh remarked. He acknowledged that game circumstances often dictate playtime, stating, “He’s not out there all the time. I don’t think he’s at the stage of his career where he is going to play every play.”
Harbaugh emphasized the importance of strategic deployment, noting that when Hopkins is on the field, it should be for specific purposes that highlight his strengths. “We’re trying to be intentional about him being out there for specific purposes and to do the things that he does well,” he explained.
Evaluating Hopkins’ Impact
Despite the underwhelming stats, Harbaugh believes that Hopkins’ contributions extend beyond the box score. “If you go back and watch the game, you’re going to see him playing his tail off,” Harbaugh praised. “He’s running routes, he’s fighting to get open, he’s blocking, he’s competing—he’s doing everything he can, and that’s what I admire about him.”
With the Ravens gearing up for a crucial stretch of games, Harbaugh is eager to see a shift in Hopkins’ involvement. “Yes, this next game, and these next four games and into the playoffs, let’s get him involved more. We really need to try to do that,” he stated. “It hasn’t fallen for us, but I still believe he’s going to make plays for us that are going to matter.”
Potential for a Playoff Push
So far this season, Hopkins has not exceeded two catches in any game, but that could change as the Ravens fight for a playoff berth in the final weeks. As Baltimore aims to overtake the Steelers and claim the AFC North title, an uptick in Hopkins’ production could be just what the team needs to secure a spot in the postseason once again.
As the countdown to the playoffs begins, all eyes will be on Hopkins and the Ravens, with fans hoping for a transformation in the veteran’s performance that could pave the way for a deep playoff run.
