Decline in Player Performance Raises Concerns for Chiefs

Hopkins, a wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs, has seen a notable decrease in his involvement over the past few weeks. The trend has been observed in both his route share and first-read share, with the former dropping from 62% to 51.4% over three consecutive games, and the latter falling from 28% in Week 9 to a mere 11.1% most recently. This downturn is concerning for a player who was once expected to take on a more integral role within the Chiefs’ offensive strategy.

During the latest game, Hopkins recorded a 12.1% target share and managed 1.61 yards per route run (YPRR), amounting to 29 receiving yards. His performance in recent weeks has rendered him a volatile option for fantasy football leagues.

Examining the defensive statistics, the Carolina Panthers, an opponent since Week 6, have allowed the 14th-most receiving yards per game to wide receivers playing on the perimeter. In terms of fantasy football, they rank 18th for points conceded per game to players in this position. These numbers frame the challenges Hopkins faces as he seeks to regain his earlier form.