DeAndre Hopkins

DeAndre Hopkins is a standout professional wide receiver with the Kansas City Chiefs in the National Football League (NFL). Nicknamed "DHop" and "Nuk," Hopkins has established himself as one of the premier receivers in the league.

Hopkins attended D.W. Daniel High School in Central, South Carolina, where he excelled in football, basketball, and track and field. His multifaceted athleticism was evident as he played both offense and defense in football, contributing significantly to his team's success.

He committed to Clemson University, playing for the Tigers from 2010 to 2012. During his junior year in 2012, Hopkins had a standout season, recording 82 receptions for 1,405 yards and 18 touchdowns, setting a school record for touchdown receptions in a single season. His collegiate success led him to declare for the NFL Draft, foregoing his senior year.

Selected 27th overall by the Houston Texans in the 2013 NFL Draft, Hopkins made an immediate impact. Over seven seasons with the Texans, he earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and was named to several All-Pro teams. In 2020, he was traded to the Arizona Cardinals, where he continued to showcase his elite receiving skills. After a stint with the Tennessee Titans in 2023, Hopkins was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs in October 2024. He made a notable debut with the Chiefs and helped lead the team to Super Bowl LIX.

Off the field, Hopkins has faced personal challenges that have shaped his character and drive. Hopkins’ father died in a car accident when he was five years old, leaving his mother, Sabrina Greenlee, to raise him and his three siblings as a single mom. In July 2002, Greenlee was the victim of a violent attack that left her blind. Despite these hardships, Hopkins credits his success to his mother's resilience and strength. Because of her inability to watch him play, Hopkins started a tradition of giving touchdown balls to her immediately after scoring in an effort to remain close to her.

Hopkins is committed to philanthropy. He holds a SMOOOTH Back-to-School giveaway that supplies book bags and school supplies for over 2,500 children. SMOOOTH stands for "Speaking Mentally Outwardly Opening Opportunities Towards Healing," reflecting his dedication to community support and mental health advocacy.