Lamar Jackson sets clear expectations for DeAndre Hopkins after WR joins Ravens from Chiefs

The Baltimore Ravens have landed a superstar ahead of the 2025 NFL season. Lamar Jackson will now have DeAndre Hopkins as a new weapon at wide receiver, and the quarterback has already set clear expectations for the former Chiefs star.

Just a couple of years ago, the Ravens weren’t completely convinced that Lamar Jackson was their long-term answer at quarterback. But he proved the doubters wrong, becoming one of the top signal-callers in the NFL.

As a result, Baltimore rewarded him with a lucrative contract extension. Since then, the front office has been working to build a stronger roster around him—bringing in proven talent to support his growth and push the team toward championship contention.

Lamar Jackson sends message to DeAndre Hopkins about expectations in Baltimore

DeAndre Hopkins has gone from one elite quarterback to another in just a matter of months. After falling short of a Super Bowl win with Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX, Hopkins now sets his sights on a championship run with Lamar Jackson and the Ravens.

For years, Baltimore has searched for a top-tier wide receiver to complement Jackson’s skill set. Their most recent attempt, signing Odell Beckham Jr., didn’t go as planned, with the veteran leaving after just one season.

Now, Hopkins joins a talented Ravens offense that includes receivers like Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman. Many analysts see him as the team’s WR3, but Lamar Jackson thinks Hopkins could take on a bigger role in 2025.

The quarterback recently spoke about his expectations for Hopkins, expressing confidence in the veteran’s ability to contribute immediately. Jackson made it clear that Hopkins is still a reliable target who can help elevate Baltimore’s offense and keep them in the Super Bowl conversation.

“That guy is dope. He is different,” Lamar Jackson said, via the team’s website. “That’s some super vet type of stuff. It’s just dope to have him, and I am looking forward to throwing a lot of touchdowns to him this year.”

DeAndre Hopkins’ stats from the 2024 NFL season

Once considered the best wide receiver in the NFL, DeAndre Hopkins has faced a few challenging seasons in recent years. Now, he hopes to change the narrative in 2025 with a fresh start in Baltimore.

In 2024, while playing with Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs, Hopkins recorded 437 receiving yards and four touchdowns in 10 games. Though his production was limited, the Ravens are optimistic that their offensive system—and the chemistry with Jackson—can help him bounce back in a big way.