Most experts believe the Washington Commanders still need another veteran wide receiver to round out the room. And most of the speculation continues to center on Brandon Aiyuk once his bitter standoff with the San Francisco 49ers finally ends.
The Commanders have been strongly linked to Aiyuk, who reportedly wants to reunite with quarterback Jayden Daniels. That might be true, but if general manager Adam Peters doesn't want to trade for the player, the Niners could drag this on for months.
Contingencies need to be formed. The sooner another addition comes in, the better their chances of hitting the ground running. And one NFL analyst added his name to the list of those tipping DeAndre Hopkins to switch to Washington.
Commanders once again urged to explore a move for DeAndre Hopkins
Anthony Palacios of Last Words on Sports thought Hopkins could still have some solid production left, despite being firmly in the tail-end of his career. However, his potential influence on third-round rookie Antonio Williams could be equally as important in this scenario.
"If the Washington Commanders want a short-term boost without tying themselves down, veteran wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins fits the bill. He is not a long-term solution, but still has enough left to contribute in key spots.
"In Washington, that role would be simple. Be a reliable option, help move the chains, and serve as a veteran presence for Antonio Williams and Jayden Daniels while the offense continues to grow."
Hopkins was among the game's elite at the peak of his powers. Those days are seemingly gone, but his assured hands and ability to create separation in the red zone could be an asset for Daniels to depend upon.
Aiyuk is younger with more long-term appeal. He is also no sure thing, having missed all of 2025 due to a serious knee injury. There is just no telling if he can ever get back to his 2023 form, though he is reportedly healthy and wants to play.
If Hopkins is willing to accept a reduced role of sorts, it makes sense. The impact he could have on Williams, another Clemson alum, would be the most beneficial thing of all. However, the Commanders also have Terry McLaurin to provide counsel to the first-year pro.
Veterans are being snapped up quickly after the 2026 NFL Draft. The Commanders can't hold out all their hope in Aiyuk. That's just not smart with so much at stake, and Hopkins could be attainable if the price is right.
There are other options, such as Stefon Diggs and possibly re-signing Deebo Samuel Sr. Hopkins might also be waiting around for a legitimate Super Bowl challenger, but the allure of playing with Daniels would be difficult to turn down.
Time will tell on all fronts.
Add us as a preferred source on Google