newsweek
A few weeks ago, it seemed almost a lock that Brandon Aiyuk would sign with the Washington Commanders for the 2026 campaign as soon as the San Francisco 49ers released the wide receiver.
The 49ers have stated publicly that Aiyuk has played his final snap with the organization but were hoping to receive a trade before parting ways with the 2020 first-round pick.
Aiyuk and Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels were teammates in college at Arizona State.
More news: Texas HC Steve Sarkisian Slams Ole Miss for Basket Weaving Degree More news: FIFA Under Fire For Defending Attendance For World Cup Match Over the weekend, Aiyuk and Daniels traded insults on social media, though it's unclear if the two are trolling the league.
Regardless, the Commanders have no time for tomfoolery when training camp begins.
Head coach Dan Quinn is on the hot seat this season.
Per Jason La Canfora of SportsBoom, sources around the league believe the Commanders will look for another veteran receiver to sign this offseason.
Five-time All-Pro DeAndre Hopkins appears to be one of the favorites to join Washington.
If I had Daniels, Id sign Hopkins, an NFL personnel executive told La Canfora.
Hopkins, 34, appeared in 17 games and started three for the Baltimore Ravens last season.
He recorded 22 receptions for 330 yards and two touchdowns.
In June, Hopkins told SiriusXM NFL Radio that he feels like he "has a lot of ball left" and would like to play for a playoff contender this year.
Based on his previous experience with the Kansas City Chiefs, a reunion with Patrick Mahomes makes sense for the five-time Pro Bowl nominee.
Still, the Commanders could be an intriguing fit for the veteran.
Washington would have less competition for targets for Hopkins.
Terry McLaurin is the clear WR1, but Hopkins could carve out a role like Deebo Samuel had last season with the Commanders, when he led the team in receiving amid McLaurin's quad injury.
Hopkins doesn't plan to be a regular-season superstar at his age, but he can be helpful in crunch-time moments.
That could help Daniels lead the Commanders to the playoffs in the quarterback's third season in the league.
For more on the Commanders and the NFL, head to Newsweek Sports.