Patriots' deal with DeAndre Hopkins will be on Bill Belichick's “terms”
Bill Belichick is used to getting his way and the New England Patriots' current pursuit of DeAndre Hopkins is no different. Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer provided more insight into what occurred during Hopkins visit on Thursday. "This really is gonna come down to Bill. … It's gonna have to be on Bill's terms. I think […]
Bill Belichick is used to getting his way and the New England Patriots' current pursuit of DeAndre Hopkins is no different.
Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer provided more insight into what occurred during Hopkins visit on Thursday.
"This really is gonna come down to Bill. … It's gonna have to be on Bill's terms. I think the fact Bill and Hopkins spent 1-on-1 time yesterday at the end of the visit tells me those terms have been discussed," Breer said on Toucher and Rich Friday morning (via NESN's Dakota Randall).
Hopkins visit with the Patriots was reportedly very successful, with the receiver even posting a photo on his Instagram story alongside Matthew Judon.
Following the visit, New England is expected to "make a push" for Hopkins, however, it is now clear that it will be strictly on Belichick's terms. However, with that, there is no apparent rush for Hopkins to sign with a team as he will most likely wait until until closer to training camp in late July to see if there is a larger need with any other teams.
Yet, as Breer reports, Belichick and Hopkins appear aware of the terms and will look to make a deal based on the needs of both parties.
But regardless, even Jason McCourty believes that there is "mutual respect from DeAndre Hopkins and from Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots," which is a good sign for a deal to get done.
The Patriots rank 15th in the NFL with $14,025,985, per a tweet from ESPN’s Field Yates. This would fit within the desired amount Hopkins appears to want, looking for a contract similar to Odell Beckham Jr., who signed with the Baltimore Ravens in April.
The continued optimism surrounding a potential deal to get done between the Patriots and Hopkins continues to remain high, and the next few weeks will remain crucial and training camp inches closer.
Featured Image via Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
