Former All-Pro wide receiver could still help the Jets in a big way

The New York Jets had a clear pass-catching problem heading into the offseason. They neglected to address it in free agency, but hit it hard during the 2026 NFL Draft.

In the first round, they selected Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq, who expects to help take the Jets' passing offense to another level with his versatility as an athlete. The Jets also traded back into the end of Round 1 to nab Indiana wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr., a much-needed addition at the position.

Now, the Jets have a decent trio at wide receiver in Garrett Wilson, Adonai Mitchell, and Cooper, but behind them, it's fairly thin. 2025 fourth-round pick Arian Smith left a lot to be desired throughout his rookie season, and Isaiah Williams, while having his use as a gadget player, is a special teams ace.

Before the season starts, the Jets should make another impactful addition to their wide receiver room, and the free agent market boasts a few decent options.

Jets urged to target former All-Pro WR DeAndre Hopkins

Sports Illustrated's Devon Platana believes the Jets should take a good look at three-time All-Pro DeAndre Hopkins, an older option but still with some talent nonetheless.

"Hopkins would look great as the Jets' WR3 behind Wilson and Cooper. The former Clemson Tiger won't rip off 100-yard performances in the near future, but he finished with 40-plus yards three times last season and even averaged 15.0 yards per reception—the third-best mark of his 13-year career. His 81.3 offense grade on Pro Football Focus was his best mark of the last five seasons."

Devon Platana

At age 33 (he'll be 34 by the time the 2026 season starts), Hopkins isn't the player he once was during his glory days with the Houston Texans, but he still proved to be a reliable contributor with the Baltimore Ravens in 2025.

He hauled in 22 receptions for 330 yards and two touchdowns last season, which, quite frankly, is all he would need to do for the Jets if they were to sign him.

New York doesn't want to take away development reps for Cooper and Mitchell, and Hopkins would just be an addition to improve the team's depth.

But his veteran presence could be a massive boost for the Jets' young pass catchers. After a 13-year career in the NFL, he surely knows what it takes for a wide receiver to have success in the league.

Spotrac projects Hopkins to sign a one-year, $1.5 million contract, something the Jets could surely afford, and would almost make the decision a no-brainer for Darren Mougey.

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