DeAndre Hopkins shadows Patriots coaches at training camp

Veteran wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins is exploring a potential future in coaching, currently observing practices and working with staff at the New England Patriots' training camp. The 34-year-old free agent, who played 13 NFL seasons, is not with the team for a tryout but to shadow coaches and personnel officials, according to Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel.

Vrabel said Hopkins initiated the visit, asking if he could spend time around the team's football operations. The coach confirmed he received league approval for the arrangement. Hopkins has been at the Patriots' facility in Foxborough, Massachusetts, for several days and is expected to remain through the start of camp practices. Vrabel emphasized that Hopkins is present in a non-playing capacity, wearing coaching gear and assisting offensive coaches while also meeting with the personnel department.

This reunion follows a professional history between the player and coach. Hopkins played for Vrabel with the Tennessee Titans in 2023, and their paths first crossed when Vrabel was an assistant coach with the Houston Texans earlier in Hopkins' career. The Patriots' training camp opened on Tuesday, July 21, 2026.