Is DeAndre Hopkins playing today? Chiefs WR's status revealed for Christmas Day showdown vs. Steelers

After being picked in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft from Clemson, veteran wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins has had seven seasons with 1,000+ yards while playing for the Tennessee Titans, Arizona Cardinals and Houston Texans. Last season, he caught 75 passes for 1,057 yards and seven touchdowns with the Titans.

However, he had seen his numbers decline this season in Tennessee before he was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs. A win over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Christmas Day would allow Hopkins and the Chiefs to secure the No. 1 spot and a first-round playoff bye, two months after the star wideout moved to Kansas City.

Exploring DeAndre Hopkins' availability status for the Christmas Day game

DeAndre Hopkins is expected to play for the Kansas City Chiefs on Wednesday against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The 32-year-old did not appear in the Chiefs' final injury report on Tuesday, suggesting he is healthy and ready to play.

Hopkins, who was traded from the Titans in October, was immediately integrated into the Chiefs' system. He hasn't missed a game since then either.

While Hopkins will play, left tackle D.J. Humphries (hamstring) and cornerback Chamarri Conner (concussion) have been ruled out by the Chiefs for Week 17. Defensive tackle Chris Jones (calf) and right tackle Jawaan Taylor (knee) are questionable after getting hurt against the Houston Texans last weekend.

How has DeAndre Hopkins performed this season?

Since joining the Chiefs, DeAndre Hopkins has caught 39 passes for 430 receiving yards and four touchdowns.

For the first time in his last five games, Hopkins finished with four targets against the Houston Texans last Saturday, indicating a minor decline in his role in the team's passing offense.

With wideout Hollywood Brown back to full fitness, he will probably continue to play a smaller role in the Chiefs' offense.

It is expected quarterback Patrick Mahomes will continue to distribute the ball among multiple options going forward, also including tight end Travis Kelce and wide receiver Xavier Worthy.