Wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins will be ‘helping out’ Patriots at training camp but is not trying out for the team

Three-time first-team All-Pro receiver DeAndre Hopkins has recently spent some time with the Patriots, with hopes of determining his future in the coaching or personnel department.

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Mike Vrabel, who coached Hopkins for a season in Tennessee, said Hopkins reached out and expressed interest in learning from his staff as he contemplates his next move. Because he has not formally retired — he played his 13th NFL season last year — Vrabel called the league office to ensure such a situation would be allowed.

“He is helping out the offensive coaches and meeting with the personnel guys,” Vrabel said.

Hopkins is expected to stay for at least a few days of training camp. Vrabel made it clear Hopkins is not trying out for a roster spot.

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Players expressed excitement about Hopkins being in the building.

“Any time you have a valuable asset like that in the room is a blessing for everybody,” tight end Hunter Henry said. “One of the best receivers of the past decade, for sure. We could pick his brain on a lot of things, and it’ll be cool to have a guy like that.”

Linebacker Robert Spillane called Hopkins a “potential Hall of Fame guy.”

“I ran over there and gave him a big hug,” Spillane said. “I’m sure he’ll do great as a coach.”

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