The mid-season trade by the Kansas City Chiefs to acquire former All-Pro wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins has paid off more than what he’s done statistically. Chiefs head coach Andy Reid highlighted Hopkins’ contributions as a leader during Wednesday’s press conference.
“I knew we were getting a good player to play against him quite a bit, but I didn’t know the leadership part,” said Reid. “He’s been tremendous that way. He hasn’t complained that we’re spreading the ball around or utilizing other guys along with him. He’s willing to share in that way.”
Since joining the Chiefs, Hopkins hasn’t received his typical number of targets per game because of the weapons alongside him in the offense. Instead, he has become a mentor to rookie Xavier Worthy, who has blossomed over the second half of the year under the multiple-time Pro Bowler’s guidance.
“So that whole senior leadership part that he’s brought, I really appreciated,” said Reid. “He’s a unique route runner. He knows how to set things up and shared that with some of the guys. I appreciate that part, too.”
Reid could be setting Hopkins up for more targets in the Super Bowl. Historically, when given an extra week to prepare, Reid has found new ways to involve offensive players in the game plan.