Joe Burrow has quickly emerged as one of the premier quarterbacks since joining the NFL in 2020, earning numerous compliments for his exceptional play and drawing considerable interest among fellow players who wish to work alongside him – former Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins being among them, with plans of joining Burrow’s roster with high aspirations for their future together.
Hopkins responded when asked which quarterback from those he has not had the chance to work alongside was one he most wanted to join up with, choosing Joe Burrow as one he most enjoyed playing alongside. “Joe Burrow is incredible – his game and toughness stand out compared to anyone. Plus he led his team all the way back to Super Bowl success early on his career – I believe with some help he can reach new heights!”
Burrow gained fame by leading the Bengals to the Super Bowl in just his third NFL season. Unlike many rookies who struggle early on, he has consistently outperformed his peers since his debut. Although he has only played six seasons so far, Burrow’s achievements include winning the Comeback Player of the Year award twice. However, lately, opponents have found ways to challenge him, and the Bengals have missed the playoffs for three consecutive years.
The Bengals already boast a strong wide receiver pair in Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, but DeAndre Hopkins is no ordinary addition. With three First-Team All-Pro selections and two Second-Team honors, Hopkins has built a stellar career. He has amassed impressive statistics including thousands of receiving yards and numerous touchdowns. Hopkins also has Super Bowl experience, having scored a touchdown and completed a two-point conversion in the 2024 game while with the Chiefs.
Joe Burrow’s presence alone gives the Bengals strong Super Bowl potential, but defensive issues have hindered the team’s progress. This offseason, the Bengals addressed those concerns by adding key defensive players like Dexter Lawrence. With these improvements on both offense and defense, the Bengals are positioned to contend for the championship this year. Although Hopkins will not be part of the roster, their outlook remains promising.
Hopkins Also Interested in Teaming Up with Josh Allen
Joe Burrow is not the only elite quarterback Hopkins has expressed an interest in playing alongside. Earlier this year, Hopkins mentioned the possibility of joining forces with Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen. “Me and Josh Allen could do some damage, for sure,” Hopkins said, praising Allen as a “player’s player.”
Hopkins added, “I think I’m quarterback-proof, if I’m just being honest. I’m not saying that just to say that, but Will Levis and I? We connected for almost 1,000 yards and seven touchdowns. Give me a Josh Allen and who knows?”
Unlike Burrow, Allen has been a consistent postseason participant, reaching the playoffs for six straight seasons and earning the MVP title in 2024. However, similar to Burrow, Allen has yet to make an appearance in the Super Bowl.
Now with the Baltimore Ravens, Hopkins remains confident he still has much to contribute. Recently completing seven seasons with over 1,000 receiving yards at age 31 was testament to that belief; even at 34 he remains an invaluable asset that can support quarterbacks as a receiver or tight end. Plus he remains free agent.
Hopkins stands as an extraordinary athlete and near Hall-of-Famer; all that remains missing for him now is a Super Bowl championship ring. To him, joining forces with Joe Burrow or Josh Allen would complete his unforgettable storybook conclusion to an outstanding career.