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Friday PM update: Hopkins was downgraded to DNP at practice on Friday and is listed as questionable for Sunday’s game. The downgrade is not ideal, but it could also be a maintenance day to get him ready for Sunday.
Friday update: Head coach Kliff Kingsbury is calling DeAndre Hopkins and Kyler Murray game-day decisions this week, but all signs point to both playing.
Kyler and Hop again will be game-day decisions, Kliff Kingsbury said.
— Darren Urban (@Cardschatter) December 3, 2021
Kingsbury said while there is some “cat and mouse” when it comes to keeping injury status close to vest, he also said with Cards’ record this year, they were always going to be overly cautious with Kyler/Hop.
Thursday update: Both Kyler Murray and DeAndre Hopkins will play against the Bears this week, per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. UPDATE: Murray got in a second limited practice on Thursday.
Thursday AM update: Late Wednesday, Hopkins posted a picture of him working out with the phrase “... back in that action”. He still needs to get through the full week of practice, but the confidence is welcome heading into Week 13.
… back in that action pic.twitter.com/gI4aMMESUH
— Deandre Hopkins (@DeAndreHopkins) December 2, 2021
Arizona Cardinals wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins returned to practice on Wednesday for Week 13. Hopkins has missed three games due to a hamstring injury and four weeks when you consider the bye last week. His presence at practice on Wednesday is a great sign as long as he can get in a limited session.
In open portion of Cardinals practice: QB Kyler Murray participating at usual level; WR DeAndre Hopkins present and participating somewhat; LG Justin Pugh seen on field, but not taking part in blocking sled drills; NT Rashard Lawrence present, as was G Max Garcia.
— Howard Balzer (@HBalzer721) December 1, 2021
With Hopkins out, Antoine Wesley has seen the biggest bump in snaps, but Zach Ertz and Christian Kirk have seen the biggest bump in production. When he does return, the snaps should stay about the same for the group, with Wesley returning to the bench. They should also get Kyler Murray back, which will also change the dynamic of the offense.
Fantasy football implications
Hopkins could have a snap count restriction in his first game back, but he’s just too good to sit as long as he’s starting. Murray and Nuk will want to get back on the same page against an overall poor Bears team.