A Strategic Addition to the Yellow Jackets' Staff
DeAndre Hopkins, the three‑time All‑Pro receiver known for his precise route running and deep‑ball prowess, announced this week that he will join the Georgia Tech offensive staff for the 2026 season. His arrival comes as the Yellow Jackets look to bolster a unit that has shown flashes of promise but still seeks a definitive identity.
The move is the culmination of a long‑standing relationship between Hopkins and offensive coordinator George Godsey, who first crossed paths with the receiver during their tenure with the Houston Texans. Godsey, now leading the Yellow Jackets’ offense, will rely on Hopkins’ insider knowledge of the position to fine‑tune the team’s receiving corps.
Hopkins’ transition from player to coach follows a recent stint on the New England Patriots’ training camp staff, where he began to explore the next chapter of his football journey. The former Clemson standout, drafted 27th overall in 2013, built a Hall‑of‑Fame‑caliber career that included a 2017 season in which he led the NFL with 13 receiving touchdowns.
Beyond his playing days, Hopkins has remained deeply connected to the game, spending time with the Arizona Cardinals, the Tennessee Titans, the Kansas City Chiefs and the Baltimore Ravens before stepping into a coaching role. His extensive experience across multiple systems equips him to offer nuanced guidance to Georgia Tech’s receivers as they prepare for a September 12, 2026 showdown with the Volunteers.
The upcoming game against Tennessee adds an extra layer of intrigue, as the Yellow Jackets will be tested against a defense that has historically challenged their aerial attack. By leveraging Hopkins’ expertise, Georgia Tech hopes to turn that challenge into an opportunity for growth and innovation on the offensive side of the ball.