Hopkins in KC: Fantasy Film Room & Risers
The Kansas City Chiefs made a splash in the offseason by acquiring veteran wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins in a trade with the Arizona Cardinals. This move immediately injected the Chiefs' offense with a proven playmaker and a potential game-changer for fantasy football.
But how does Hopkins fit into the Chiefs' offense, and what impact will he have on the fantasy landscape? Let's dive into the Fantasy Film Room and explore the potential risers and fallers with Hopkins' arrival.
Hopkins' Impact on the Chiefs' Offense
Hopkins brings a wealth of experience and elite route-running ability to Kansas City. He's a known commodity as a reliable target with a knack for getting open and making tough catches. His presence instantly upgrades the Chiefs' receiving corps, giving quarterback Patrick Mahomes another high-quality option alongside Travis Kelce and Kadarius Toney.
Here's how Hopkins could impact the Chiefs' offense:
- Reduced Pressure on Kelce: Hopkins' arrival will likely take some pressure off Kelce, who has been the primary target in the Chiefs' offense for years. This could lead to more opportunities for other receivers, including Hopkins.
- Increased Efficiency: With a more diverse and experienced receiving corps, the Chiefs' offense could become even more efficient. Hopkins' ability to draw double coverage could create open lanes for other players, boosting their production.
- Red Zone Threat: Hopkins is a proven red zone target, having scored 61 touchdowns in his career. His presence gives the Chiefs another reliable weapon in the scoring area.
Fantasy Implications: Risers
1. DeAndre Hopkins: Hopkins is the obvious riser in this scenario. He's a proven WR1 with a high ceiling, and he now joins an explosive offense with an elite quarterback. While he might not have the volume he had in Arizona, his efficiency and red zone opportunities make him a potential top-10 fantasy wide receiver.
2. Kadarius Toney: Toney's stock could rise with Hopkins' arrival. With Hopkins drawing defensive attention, Toney could see more opportunities to make plays downfield. His versatility as a runner and receiver makes him a potential breakout candidate in 2023.
3. Skyy Moore: Moore, a second-year wide receiver, could also benefit from Hopkins' presence. As Hopkins attracts double coverage, Moore could see more targets and potentially take a leap in his production.
Fantasy Implications: Fallers
1. Travis Kelce: While Kelce remains a top-tier fantasy tight end, his target share could decrease slightly with Hopkins in the mix. However, Kelce's elite talent and red zone dominance make him a safe pick for fantasy drafts.
2. JuJu Smith-Schuster: With Hopkins and Toney on the roster, Smith-Schuster's role could be reduced. He might not be as valuable in fantasy drafts, but his familiarity with Mahomes and his knack for finding the end zone could still make him a viable option in deeper leagues.
Conclusion:
DeAndre Hopkins' arrival in Kansas City has a significant impact on both the Chiefs' offense and the fantasy football landscape. While the exact numbers are uncertain, his presence could lead to increased efficiency and production for several players. Fantasy managers should monitor the situation closely and adjust their draft strategies accordingly. With Hopkins, the Chiefs' offense becomes even more dynamic and unpredictable, making them a formidable force both on the field and in fantasy leagues.