ARIZONA CARDINALS
Reports: Cardinals expect DeAndre Hopkins to play Thursday vs. Packers
Oct 28, 2021, 7:48 AM | Updated: 9:30 am
The Arizona Cardinals have an optimistic outlook for a Thursday Night Football battle against the Green Bay Packers regarding the health of receiver DeAndre Hopkins, according to NFL Networks’ Mike Garafolo.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter confirmed Hopkins will play, “barring any pregame setbacks.”
Hopkins enters the game listed as questionable to play with a hamstring injury and was held out of practices this short week of preparation.
“In talking to folks in Arizona, they’re saying it’s a gametime decision but this is a guy that has played throughout his career,” Garafolo said. “Only missed two regular season games. They are expecting and hoping that DeAndre Hopkins will be a go against the Packers.”
Hopkins leads Arizona with 420 receiving yards on 33 catches and 47 targets so far this year. He also has the team lead with seven receiving scores.
Hopkins is listed as questionable along with center Max Garcia (Achilles), defensive tackle Rashard Lawrence (calf) and tight end Darrell Daniels (hamstring). Arizona, however, reportedly has lost defensive end J.J. Watt for the year due to a shoulder injury suffered Sunday in a win against the Houston Texans. It will require surgery.
With or without Hopkins, the Cardinals are in better shape at the receiver position compared to the Packers.
Green Bay enters Thursday with top wideout Davante Adams and fellow starter Allen Lazard on the COVID-19 reserve list. The visiting team for the game at State Farm Stadium is also traveling without defensive coordinator Joe Barry, who is away from the team and in COVID-19 protocols.
Kickoff is scheduled for 5:20 p.m. Tune to 98.7 FM Arizona’s Sports Station.
