Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins told reporters Monday that he’s “focused on football” and didn’t want to answer specific questions about his contract situation.
Hopkins didn’t report for training camp with the rest of his teammates Saturday because he’s upset the team hasn’t given him a new contract. He reversed course and showed up Sunday, releasing a statement that said he’s disappointed in his contract situation and wanted to “express [his] sincere position” but wanted to be with his teammates as the Texans worked to reach their goals.
Basically, Hopkins was saying he’s still mad and still wants a new contract immediately, but he wasn’t willing to take on daily fines, risk a $445,000 roster bonus and be a distraction.
In his first comments Monday since returning to the team, Hopkins said he “wasn’t trying to send a message” to the Texans with his brief absence.
“I was trying to do what’s best for my family and myself,” he said.
Hopkins said he loves playing football, is excited about the potential of the Texans and all the requisite things about focus and improvement. He made it clear he wants his money, too.
“I have to prove what I’m worth,” he said.
