DeAndre Hopkins Is Turning Heads in Baltimore — And He's Just Getting Started

Baltimore, MD – May 28, 2025

DeAndre Hopkins may be the new face in Baltimore, but the five-time Pro Bowl wideout is already acting like he owns the field. From the moment he stepped onto the Ravens’ practice turf during OTAs, all eyes have been on him — and Hopkins is delivering the kind of early impact that’s turning heads from coaches to teammates to stunned fans in the stands.

“He’s everything we hoped for, and probably more,” head coach John Harbaugh said after Wednesday’s session. “It’s the footwork, the hands, the command. You can feel his presence elevating everyone around him.”

Hopkins has brought more than just résumé to Owings Mills — he’s brought fire. The 32-year-old veteran is running crisp routes, finding instant rhythm with Lamar Jackson, and consistently creating separation against a younger Ravens secondary that isn’t exactly lacking talent. Observers noted a red-zone session on Day 2 of OTAs where Hopkins hauled in three straight touchdowns, including a toe-tapping sideline grab that drew an audible reaction from onlookers.

“He just knows how to win space,” said tight end Isaiah Likely. “Even on plays where the ball doesn’t go his way, you see defenders shifting because of him. That makes our whole offense breathe differently.”

While Hopkins joins a receiving corps already featuring Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman, there’s no doubt he’s adding a dimension the Ravens have lacked: a proven WR1 who thrives in contested catches and late-game moments. More importantly, he’s giving Lamar Jackson a veteran outlet with the instincts to adjust mid-play — a dynamic that’s already showing up in early drills.

Still, Hopkins remains locked in, with no signs of complacency.

“I’m not here to coast,” he said earlier this week. “I’m here to finish what I started. I’ve had good seasons, but I came to Baltimore to chase a ring.”

For a team still stinging from playoff disappointment, Hopkins may be exactly the kind of weapon they needed — a technician, a tone-setter, and a quiet storm in cleats. And if OTAs are any indication, his show is just beginning.