DeAndre Hopkins Confirms Return to Houston Texans After Period of Consideration
HOUSTON — In a move that has sent waves through the NFL world, star wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins has officially confirmed that he will rejoin the Houston Texans. After a period of speculation and consideration, the five-time Pro Bowler made his decision public, marking a surprising reunion with the franchise where he first rose to stardom.
Hopkins, 32, spent the first seven seasons of his career with the Texans after being drafted in the first round in 2013. He quickly became one of the league’s most dominant receivers, earning All-Pro honors and amassing over 8,600 receiving yards during his initial tenure in Houston. However, a controversial trade to the Arizona Cardinals in 2020 ended his run with the team on a sour note — until now.
“Houston is home,” Hopkins said in a statement shared through his representatives. “This city and these fans have always meant the world to me. After taking time to weigh my options, I realized that the opportunity to come back and finish what we started was something I couldn’t pass up.”
Hopkins had been a free agent following the end of his contract with the Tennessee Titans, where he played during the 2023 season. Despite fielding offers from several playoff contenders, including interest from the Baltimore Ravens and the Kansas City Chiefs, he ultimately chose familiarity and legacy over immediate championship contention.
Sources close to the negotiations report that the Texans offered a two-year deal worth up to $26 million, with incentives tied to performance and postseason success. More than money, however, insiders say Hopkins was drawn by the direction of the current Texans team — led by second-year quarterback C.J. Stroud and head coach DeMeco Ryans, who helped guide Houston to a surprise playoff appearance last season.
“DeAndre brings veteran leadership, elite skills, and an unmatched connection to this organization,” said Ryans in a team statement. “We’re thrilled to welcome him back to the locker room and know he’ll be a key part of what we’re building here.”
Hopkins is expected to join offseason workouts immediately and is anticipated to be a major target for Stroud in the upcoming 2025 season. His return adds firepower to an already promising offense and raises expectations for the Texans, who are quickly evolving from rebuilders to legitimate contenders in the AFC.