Ex-NFL star Ed Reed reflects on how rookie DeAndre Hopkins transformed into Chiefs' star WR

Former Super Bowl champion Ed Reed looked back on his playing time from 11 years ago in Houston Texans when he played with Kansas City Chiefs' newest star, DeAndre Hopkins. In 2013, as the former safety was at the end of his career, Hopkins was just starting, fresh out of Clemson.

On the "Up & Adams" podcast, Kay Adams asked Reed what stood out about Hopkins the most back then.

“His hands,” Reed said.

Reed described Hopkins as a natural whose football talent was evident to the Texans from Day 1.

"His work ethic, you know, it was all there," Reed added. "D-Hop’s a little older now, but I’m sure he’s still crafty, you know what I’m saying? He’s in that stage where you put the ball somewhere around him, and I’m sure he can get it. He’ll come down with it."

That said, Reed's tenure in the Houston Texans lasted only one season, owing to his declining playing time because of hip surgery. The team eventually released him.

Ed Reeds takes pride in DeAndre Hopkins' NFL career

NFL: Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Kansas City Chiefs - Source: Imagn

Ed Reed is an early witness to DeAndre Hopkins' headstart in the league.

From rising above the team’s struggles to earning NFL Rookie of the Month honors, Hopkins wrapped up his first season with 802 receiving yards. Ever since, he has been seen as a dependable, high-caliber receiver, and his reputation has only grown in the last decade.

Reed now sees Hopkins as a seasoned pro who is still able to come down with the ball in tight coverage.

“That’s my guy,” Reed said beaming with happiness for Hopkins, who has gone from a rookie talent to now a dominant force in the Kansas City Chiefs.

The Chiefs have high hopes for Hopkins, including Patrick Mahomes, who said the WR will "get even better."