DeAndre Hopkins working with Patriots coaches, personnel department at training camp - NBC Sports

What the report says

NBCSports.com’s ProFootballTalk reported that wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins is spending several days at New England Patriots training camp in a non-playing capacity, working alongside coaches and members of the personnel department. The visit reunites Hopkins with Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, who previously coached him with the Tennessee Titans.

According to the report, Vrabel told reporters Friday that Hopkins asked to be around the team for a few days to observe and help. Vrabel said he checked with the league before bringing Hopkins in, and described him as wearing coaching gear, assisting offensive staff and meeting with personnel officials. The Patriots coach framed the visit as a chance for a longtime player to look at what football work might involve after his playing career.

The development is notable because Hopkins has not publicly ruled out continuing as a player. NBCSports.com noted that Hopkins said in an interview last month that he still believes he has more football left, while also indicating he was not trying to force a roster opportunity.

Hopkins, a five-time Pro Bowl selection over his NFL career, played all 17 games for the Baltimore Ravens last season, finishing with 22 receptions, 330 receiving yards and two touchdowns, according to the article. His presence in New England does not appear to signal a player signing based on Vrabel’s comments; rather, the report presents it as a short-term opportunity for Hopkins to spend time with the Patriots’ coaching and scouting operations.