On Saturday, the Kansas City Chiefs will host the Houston Texans and look to take a massive step toward securing home-field advantage and a first-round bye in the playoffs. The reigning Super Bowl champions are 13-1 but haven't steamrolled to victory in any game.
Of their 13 wins, 10 have been by one score. But despite their struggles, they have the best record in the league and are inching closer to a place in the divisional round. However, beating the Texans, who have won three of their last four games, won't be easy and they'll need all their stars, especially veterans like DeAndre Hopkins, firing on all cylinders.
DeAndre Hopkins injury update: Will the WR play in Week 16 vs. Texans?
The 32-year-old tore suffered a Grade 3 MCL tear in July but he opted not to have it surgically repaired. He admitted that it may take a year for him to fully recover, making his status for each game uncertain. However, the Chiefs have nothing to worry about ahead of Saturday's game against the Texans.
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DeAndre Hopkins' name did not appear on the Chiefs' injury report, which features quarterback Patrick Mahomes (ankle), left tackle Creed Humphries (hamstring), wide receiver Hollywood Brown (shoulder), and kicker Harrison Butker (knee). The wide receiver will suit up and play, barring any last-minute hiccups, against his former team.
DeAndre Hopkins stats: How has the WR fared as a Chief?
The Chiefs traded for DeAndre Hopkins in late October to add depth to their receivers unit and the veteran has performed decently for the reigning Super Bowl champions.
In eight games for the Chiefs, he has caught 35 passes for 393 receiving yards and four touchdowns. His chemistry with Patrick Mahomes has improved steadily and the 32-year-old is primed to play a massive role in their playoff run.
With Hollywood Brown scheduled to make his debut as a Chief against the Texans on Saturday, Hopkins should get more room to operate. Defenses will need to respect Brown's deep-ball threat down the field, which could work out for Hopkins.
Hopkins has had a stellar career but he's yet to compete in and win the Super Bowl. He's hoping to tick that box this season with the Chiefs and is keen on playing a massive role in doing so.
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