The Tennessee Titans and Chicago Bears are entering the 2024 NFL season with a shared focus: proving their young quarterbacks are the right long-term solutions for their teams.
Both Will Levis of the Titans and Caleb Williams of the Bears have displayed impressive talent and have strong supporting casts. However, Levis has just received some encouraging news.
DeAndre Hopkins, the Titans’ star wide receiver, was initially expected to be sidelined for four to six weeks due to a knee injury sustained in late July. This uncertainty cast doubt on his availability for Week 1’s matchup against the Bears. Nevertheless, Hopkins appears to be making significant progress. During Wednesday’s practice, he showed promising signs of recovery, prompting head coach Brian Callahan to comment that Hopkins “looked like himself.”
According to Turron Davenport of ESPN, Callahan praised Hopkins for his proactive communication about his recovery and his commitment to getting back on the field. “Everything he’s done has been exactly what we’re looking for in terms of communication and process,” Callahan noted.
While it remains to be confirmed whether Hopkins will be available for the season opener, his potential return would significantly enhance Tennessee’s offense. Over the past three seasons, Hopkins has averaged 99 targets, 60 receptions, 782 yards, and six touchdowns per season. His presence would be a considerable boost for Levis, providing a crucial veteran target for the young quarterback.
For both teams, the performance of their young quarterbacks and the health of their key players like Hopkins will be critical as they aim to make their mark in the 2024 season.
