In a recent press conference, Tennessee Titans coach Brian Callahan confirmed that star wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins will be out for “several weeks” due to a knee injury. However, the good news is that Hopkins will not require surgery, which is a relief for both the player and the team.
Despite the setback, this presents an opportunity for other players on the Titans roster to showcase their skills and make a case for a larger role in the offense. One player who is expected to step up in Hopkins’ absence is third-year receiver Treylon Burks.
Coach Callahan expressed his excitement about giving Burks more playing time, stating, “It’s a chance for guys to get more opportunities and you get to see what they’re going to make of them. 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.”
Burks, a first-round pick from Arkansas in 2022, has big shoes to fill as he was expected to fill the void left by A.J. Brown in the Titans’ offense. However, he has yet to live up to those expectations in his first two seasons. With Hopkins sidelined, now is the perfect time for Burks to prove his worth and show that he can be a significant contributor to the team.
With his fifth-year option deadline looming, Burks needs to have a breakout season in 2024 in order to secure his future with the Titans. While the team may be hesitant to pick up his option at this point, a strong performance this year could change their minds and solidify his place in the offense.
Overall, while Hopkins’ injury is disappointing for the Titans, it opens the door for other players like Treylon Burks to shine and prove their value to the team. It will be interesting to see how Burks responds to this opportunity and if he can elevate his game to the next level in the upcoming season.