Signing DeAndre Hopkins is more important than Patriots fans realize

The New England Patriots have had a decent offseason so far, as they have addressed key needs on both sides of the ball. The additions of Christian Gonzalez, Juju Smith-Schuster, and Mike Gesicki have bolstered the Patriots' roster. However, there is one more move that needs to be made, and that is signing DeAndre Hopkins.

Signing Hopkins is ultimately more important than fans realize, and they should be demanding it.

Hopkins would be an excellent fit with the Patriots because he is 31 years old, which would give the Patriots a solid veteran presence on offense, and he is motivated to win. Unlike most people, I don’t think that Hopkins is washed as a player because he had a strong season with 717 yards and three touchdowns in only nine games last year. With Bill O’Brien running the offense, Hopkins would put up great numbers with the Patriots. I would be shocked if Hopkins joined the Patriots and had a bad year because he is a premier talent.

The real reason signing Hopkins would be important is because it would give the Patriots an answer on Mac Jones. The most important thing for the Patriots this season is to find out if Jones is the guy. As the Patriots continue to rebuild the roster, they are going to reach a point where it is championship ready. At that point, you will need to have your franchise quarterback.

Adding Hopkins would allow the Patriots to evaluate Jones as he would have a true number-one receiver. The Patriots will have their answer on Mac because it will either be a success or Jones will become a bust. The importance of finding out if Jones is the guy can not be stated enough.

Ultimately, it will be interesting to see if the Patriots actually land Hopkins.