DeAndre Hopkins Hints at Joining Joe Burrow, Bengals in Cryptic Post

The veteran wide receiver shared a video and cryptic emoji that have fans speculating about his NFL future.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 2:22am

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DeAndre Hopkins, a free agent wide receiver, has hinted at potentially joining the Cincinnati Bengals and playing with quarterback Joe Burrow. Hopkins shared a video of himself catching a touchdown pass from Burrow at a flag football event, along with a cryptic emoji that some believe was a reference to the Bengals. While Hopkins has been linked to other teams in free agency, his social media activity has fueled speculation that he could be interested in teaming up with Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins in Cincinnati.

Why it matters

If Hopkins were to sign with the Bengals, it would create one of the most formidable receiving corps in the NFL, pairing the veteran wideout with young stars Chase and Higgins. This could significantly boost Cincinnati's offense and their chances of making a deep playoff run after missing the postseason in 2025.

The details

Hopkins became a free agent after spending the 2025 season with the Baltimore Ravens, where he had 22 receptions for 330 yards and 2 touchdowns. He was seen catching a touchdown pass from Burrow at the Fanatics Flag Football Classic, an event featuring several NFL players. Hopkins then shared a video of the play on social media along with a cryptic emoji that some believe was a reference to the Bengals. While Hopkins has been linked to other teams like the Tennessee Titans and Houston Texans, his social media activity has sparked speculation that he could be interested in joining forces with Burrow and the Bengals' talented receiving corps.

  • Hopkins became a free agent after the 2025 NFL season.
  • The Fanatics Flag Football Classic took place this past weekend.
  • Hopkins shared the video and cryptic emoji on his social media accounts on March 22, 2026.

The players

DeAndre Hopkins

A veteran wide receiver who is currently a free agent after spending the 2025 season with the Baltimore Ravens.

Joe Burrow

The starting quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals, who is known for his strong arm and ability to connect with his receivers.

Ja'Marr Chase

A young, talented wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals who has emerged as one of the top pass-catchers in the NFL.

Tee Higgins

Another young, talented wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals who has formed a formidable receiving corps with Ja'Marr Chase.

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What’s next

If Hopkins were to sign with the Bengals, it would be a major move that could significantly impact the team's offense and their chances of making a deep playoff run in the 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

DeAndre Hopkins' cryptic social media activity has sparked speculation that he could be interested in joining forces with Joe Burrow and the talented receiving corps of the Cincinnati Bengals. Such a move would create one of the most formidable offenses in the NFL and could make the Bengals a top contender in the AFC.