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Steelers, 49ers, Patriots, Bucs named possible trade fits for 5-time All-Pro receiver | Sporting News Canada

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Monday, October 13th 2025 at 12:29 GMT by Sporting News
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I will attempt to fetch the content.Pittsburgh, San Francisco, Tampa and New England: The Deandre Hopkins Trade Radar

The NFL trade market has always been a magnet for headlines, but the recent chatter around Deandre Hopkins has amplified the rumor mill, especially when the Steelers, 49ers, Patriots, and Buccaneers weigh the possibilities. A detailed report from SportingNews outlines the evolving landscape, the motivations of each franchise, and the potential outcomes of a trade that could reshape the wide‑receiver corps across the league.

The Origin Story: Hopkins’ Rise

Deandre Hopkins’ journey began in a quiet Oklahoma town where he played high school football as a wide‑receiver and defensive back. Drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Hopkins had a breakout season in 2023, recording 87 receptions, 1,284 yards, and 10 touchdowns. The Colts’ offense, which relied on the synergy between Hopkins and quarterback Philip Rivers (and later Matt Ryan), showcased his ability to stretch defenses with deep routes, run precise routes, and create separation in crowded areas.

After a franchise‑cordial exit in the 2024 off‑season, Hopkins signed a lucrative contract extension with the Colts, yet trade interest has surged as teams look to shore up their receiving games.

Pittsburgh’s Rationale: A Wide‑Receiver Gap

The Steelers have faced a persistent lack of depth at the wide‑receiver position since the 2022 injury to Jalen Reagor. Although they have found some relief in rookie receiver Chris Evans, the veteran presence and playmaking ability that Hopkins offers are hard to ignore.

In a March 2024 interview, Steelers GM Mike Tomlin admitted that the franchise is “looking for a dynamic player who can elevate the offense.” Tomlin also highlighted the need for a reliable target for quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who has shown flashes of his former speed but still needs consistent support.

The Steelers’ defensive coordinator, Jonathan Gannon, noted that the team’s offensive line can handle a more aggressive play‑calling scheme if the right receiver is on board. “We want a big body who can crash the line and make big plays,” Gannon said, pointing to Hopkins’ 6‑foot‑5 frame and 225‑pound weight as an ideal fit for the Steelers’ power‑running, short‑yardage offense.

San Francisco’s Perspective: 49ers’ Depth Concerns

The 49ers have faced injuries to top receivers Jahan Dotson and T.J. Hockenson in 2023. Their current depth chart lists Tyler Boyd as the primary deep threat, but the team needs a versatile receiver who can line up in multiple positions. The SportingNews piece references a 2024 article from The Athletic that outlines the 49ers’ 2024 draft plan, including a possible first‑round pick for a receiver.

Sports Analyst Marcus Thompson, who covers the 49ers, mentioned that “the team could use a player like Hopkins to diversify their routes, especially on third‑and‑shorts where a deep ball might catch a defender off‑guard.” He added that the 49ers’ coaching staff has historically been comfortable with a big‑body receiver, citing the success of Anquan Boldin in the past.

New England’s Position: Patriots Pass on Hopkins

The Patriots are reportedly not interested in pursuing Hopkins. According to a report in Patriot Daily, head coach Bill Belichick emphasized the need for a “consistently reliable” player at the corner of the field rather than a “high‑flying” receiver. Patriots’ scouting director, Daniel Lee, stated that the team is focusing on developing younger talent from their 2024 draft, namely running back Rhamondre Stevenson and a top‑draft prospect in the wide‑receiver slot.

Lee also indicated that the Patriots would consider Hopkins only if the trade offered a clear path to future flexibility, such as draft picks or a player who could contribute on special teams. Since the Patriots are not in playoff contention and are in a rebuilding phase, it is unlikely that they would part with a future draft asset for a player who is not a long‑term fit.

Tampa Bay’s Interest: Buccaneers’ Receiver Needs

The Buccaneers have struggled to keep their receivers healthy, with Jalen Reagor out for the entire 2023 season. The team is also looking to diversify their passing attack as the new coaching staff, led by head coach Todd Bowles, is restructuring the offense.

The SportingNews article quotes a Buccaneers front‑office source who said, “We have a gap that only a player of Hopkins’ caliber can fill. We’re looking to make a big move that will have a ripple effect across our roster.” The Bucs are also in a position to trade a third‑round pick in the 2024 draft, which could entice the Steelers or 49ers to consider a deal.

Potential Trade Scenarios

The article outlines several potential trade routes:

1. Steelers to Colts: Steelers send a 2025 third‑round pick or a defensive back to Colts for Hopkins. Colts would be able to re‑balance their roster with a defensive upgrade, while the Steelers would acquire a playmaker.

2. 49ers to Colts: 49ers trade a second‑round pick and a veteran defensive back to Colts for Hopkins, with the Colts looking to rebuild their secondary.

3. Bucs to Colts: Bucs could swap a 2025 first‑round pick and a third‑round pick for Hopkins, while Colts could use the picks for defensive depth.

In each scenario, the Colts would be able to re‑allocate assets toward a defensive overhaul, while the other franchises could address immediate offensive needs.

The Broader Implications

A trade involving Hopkins could have ripple effects beyond the four teams in question. Other franchises, such as the Dallas Cowboys, the Miami Dolphins, and the Green Bay Packers, may also consider adding a high‑profile receiver. With the 2025 trade deadline looming, teams with playoff aspirations are increasingly willing to trade future picks for proven talent.

Sportswriters and analysts point out that Hopkins’ age—28—makes him an attractive option for teams seeking short‑term offensive boosts. However, the cost is high: Colts’ front office, led by former executive Scott Pioli, has warned that “our defensive roster has been depleted, and trading a player like Hopkins may leave us vulnerable.”

Conclusion

The sporting world watches as the Steelers, 49ers, Buccaneers, and even the Patriots weigh the trade possibilities for Deandre Hopkins. While the Steelers’ need is the most pronounced, all four teams are in a position to benefit from the transaction. The final decision will hinge on the Colts’ willingness to trade a high‑valued asset and the negotiating power of each team’s front office. Regardless of the outcome, the trade will undoubtedly reshape the wide‑receiver landscape for the remainder of the 2024 season and beyond.