In some unfortunate news for the Tennessee Titans, star wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins will be sidelined for “several weeks” due to a knee injury, as confirmed by coach Brian Callahan in a press conference on Saturday. However, the silver lining in this situation is that Hopkins managed to avoid surgery, which is a positive sign for his recovery.
For Hopkins’ teammates, especially the younger players, this presents a great opportunity to showcase their skills and prove their worth to the new coaching staff. One player who will be under the spotlight is third-year receiver Treylon Burks, who is expected to step up in Hopkins’ absence.
“It’s a chance for guys to get more opportunities and you get to see what they’re going to make of them,” Callahan remarked. “Treylon’s probably the one that benefits the most at that position. We’re going to get some looks at him as a starting receiver for us when D-Hop’s out. So I’m excited about that. When you get opportunities to see guys do more. I think Trey’s had a really nice camp. We’ve seen good things and now we’re going to get the chance to see more.”
Burks, a first-round pick out of Arkansas in 2022, was projected to fill the void left by A.J. Brown in the Titans’ receiving corps, but has yet to reach the same level of production. With his third season approaching, Burks must seize this opportunity to prove himself as a key contributor in the Titans’ offense, particularly with the deadline for his fifth-year option looming.
At this point, it seems unlikely that the Titans will exercise the option, but a breakout 2024 season could change their minds. Burks will need to make the most of his increased role in Hopkins’ absence, showing that he has what it takes to thrive in the NFL.
