Hopkins preparing for 'whatever the future holds' amid trade talk
Arizona Cardinals star wideout DeAndre Hopkins isn't too concerned about the possibility of being traded this offseason despite plenty of speculation.
"You know, I've been hearing a lot of the trade talks," Hopkins said on the "Pat McAfee Show" on Wednesday. "But I take things day (by) day. I don't look forward to the future, I live in the present moment. Right now, the Arizona Cardinals is the team and the roster that I'm on. I'm preparing myself for whatever the future holds."
Hopkins led the Cardinals with 717 yards last season despite missing the first six games while suspended for violating the league's performance-enhancing drug policy. As a result of the ban, the no-trade clause in his deal was voided, according to CBS Sports' Joel Corry.
If a trade were to happen, Hopkins would be flexible regarding the final two years of his $54.5-million contract extension he signed with the Cardinals in 2020 instead of aiming for a top-of-the-market deal, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
He'll account for a $30.7-million cap hit for 2023, per Over the Cap.
The five-time Pro Bowler has been the subject of trade speculation since the conclusion of last season.
Hopkins admitted he was caught off guard in 2020 when he was dealt to the Cardinals by the Houston Texans. He noted it's the reason why he pays attention to the headlines and reports regarding his status.
"We keep close attention to the tabloids, but we don't put anything out in the tabloids," he said.
The three-time All-Pro receiver has recorded 221 receptions, 2,696 yards, and 17 touchdowns over three seasons in Arizona.
Cardinals general manager Monti Ossenfort said prior to the NFL Scouting Combine last week that the club was still in the process of evaluating every player on the roster.
Arizona's wide receiver corps has gone through some changes since the conclusion of the 2022 season. A.J. Green announced his retirement in February, and the team is expected to release Chosen Anderson, who previously went by Robbie Anderson.