Baltimore, MD – June 4, 2025
DeAndre Hopkins wasn’t brought to Baltimore to blend in — he was brought in to dominate. But with a crowded receiver room and limited time to build chemistry, one question looms over the Ravens’ offense as training camp heats up: Can Hopkins truly become Lamar Jackson’s No. 1 weapon?
Hopkins, a five-time Pro Bowler, arrived with sky-high expectations and a résumé that includes over 11,000 receiving yards and countless highlight-reel grabs. Yet, he also comes to a team that already features young stars like Zay Flowers, trusted tight end Mark Andrews, and emerging talent Rashod Bateman. It’s a puzzle for offensive coordinator Todd Monken, and the pieces must align quickly.
So far in OTAs, Hopkins has flashed the elite route-running and sure hands that made him one of the league’s most feared pass catchers. But insiders note that his timing with Jackson is still “a work in progress.” “They’ve connected on some tough throws, but it’s clear they’re still learning each other’s rhythm,” said one Ravens staffer off the record.
That learning curve may explain why Lamar Jackson has reportedly leaned more heavily on Flowers and Andrews in 7-on-7 drills. But Hopkins doesn’t appear concerned. “This isn’t my first playbook, or my first elite quarterback,” he said with a smirk last week. “We’ll be right where we need to be by September.”
There’s no question Hopkins still has the physical tools. What remains to be seen is how Baltimore chooses to deploy him — and whether Jackson, known for spreading the ball around, will give Hopkins the volume he thrived on in Houston and Arizona.
Still, veteran leadership and big-play ability are hard to ignore. As one AFC scout noted, “When it’s 3rd and 8 in the red zone, who else are you trusting to win that route?”
If the chemistry builds and the play-calling evolves, Baltimore may have found the missing piece to elevate its aerial attack. But if not, Hopkins’ stint with the Ravens could quickly become another case of talent underutilized.
One thing is certain: Hopkins didn’t come to Baltimore to play second fiddle. He came to be the guy. Now it’s time to find out if Lamar Jackson agrees.
