NFL: DeAndre Hopkins cops six-game ban for PED breach

There was more shocking news about NFL wide receivers on Monday, and it actually wasn’t a trade this time. DeAndre Hopkins, of the Arizona Cardinals, was suspended for six games for violating the NFL’s policy on performance-enhancing drugs. At this point, that is all that is known about the situation.

Hopkins is a truly elite wide receiver and his loss will hurt the Cardinals in a massive way. Although he disappointed last season due to injury, he had at least 75 catches in each of the previous seven seasons. Last year, his injury coincided with the Cardinals’ struggles, so he is a hugely important pass catcher for Arizona.

This suspension also sheds some more light on the Cardinals’ draft-day acquisition of Marquise ‘Hollywood’ Brown. After they lost Christian Kirk to free agency, it made sense for them to acquire a deep threat. Now, with this Hopkins news, Brown may have a bigger role than was initially expected.

Regardless, this news hurts the Cardinals offense. It may only be six games, but that is a big chunk of the season. Kyler Murray, the Arizona quarterback, now will have to carry more of the load and elevate this team with limited options. He’s certainly capable, but having Hopkins makes his job substantially easier.

Currently, the Cardinals’ Super Bowl odds sit at +2500 with Bovada. Hopkins’ suspension hurts, but it doesn’t drastically change their long-term outlook. If the Cardinals are going to be a true Super Bowl contender, then Hopkins’ absence won’t change that. This definitely isn’t good news, but the Cards still have a great team. While it’s early, this line is good value for a team that should definitely be in the mix come next season’s playoffs.

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