Can DeAndre Hopkins replace Andre Johnson?

Sep 21, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) makes a catch against New York Giants cornerback

(20) at MetLife Stadium. The play was called back by a Texans penalty. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

SOPHOMORE SEASON

In just his second season, he eclipsed 1,200 yards and showed some signs of taking over Andre Johnson’s top receiver role that he owned for 11 years before. In the last ten games of the year, it was clear the Texans were headed in a new direction because DeAndre out targeted Andre. Even Johnson admitted that during last season he knew that the Texans weren’t going to use him in the future.

Why wouldn’t the Texans start favoring DeAndre more than Andre though? It was the smartest thing they could do. Nuk Hopkins averaged 9.52 yards per target compared to Johnon’s 6.14.

Overall, DeAndre was scoring more touchdowns on less touches, had a higher reception rate, was more explosive, and was entering his prime instead of leaving it. His spectacular catches were landing him on SportsCenter on a weekly basis (Just look at this Odell Beckham-esque catch).

As a sophomore in the NFL, he was having huge games. In week 12 against Titans, Hopkins secured all nine of his targets for 238 yards and two scores! This was one of the biggest fantasy football performances of the year and quite simply ended Andre Johnson’s time in Houston. Everyone knew that the Texans had someone special in #10 immediately after that game.

Next: What's Next For Hopkins?