Hopkins releases statement as he ends holdout |
Former Clemson receiver
DeAndre Hopkins did not officially report to Texans camp this weekend but will end his short holdout according to a statement he released on Sunday.
"I too am disappointed that the Texans organization has elected not to enter into contract negotiation to secure my future as a Texan," Hopkins said. "I have expressed my sincere position regarding my contract status and with sound mind have expressed my stance to the Texans organization. My focus also is on the 2016 season and to help my team reach our ultimate goal. Have said that I am returning to the Houston Texans to play for a Superbowl in Houston, Texas. I will have holding a 3pm press conference at Reliant Stadium today. We are excited about returning to the team and grind this camp." Hopkins has two years left on his NFL rookie contract and will make $1 million in base salary in 2016 unless the two sides agree to a new deal. Hopkins was to be fined $40,000 for each day missed as the Texans have declined to negotiate a new deal. He will now receive his $445K roster bonus being on the 90-man roster on August 4th. Houston general manager Rick Smith released the following statement on Saturday about the situation with Hopkins. "We are disappointed DeAndre has elected not to report to training camp with the rest of his teammates," Smith said. "He has expressed his position regarding his contract status, and we have been clear with both he and his representatives of ours. Our focus is on the 2016 season and all of our collective efforts and attention will be centered on that endeavor." Last season, Hopkins pulled in 111 receptions for 1,521 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns. His 2015-2016 season was remarkable in a Texans' historical perspective as he had the third-most catches, fourth-most receiving yards and fourth most receiving touchdowns. He was also the first player in NFL history to have 100-yard receiving games with four different starting quarterback in a single season (Brian Hoyer, Ryan Mallett, T.J. Yates and Brandon Weeden). He is the second player in NFL history along with Randy Moss to record 3,500 receiving yards before the age of 24. He has accrued an amazing 239 catches for 3,533 yards (14.8 ypg) and 19 touchdowns since entering the NFL in 2013. DeAndre Hopkins is returning to the team. Here's his statement. Press conference this afternoon. #Texans pic.twitter.com/D12klQm4GL
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