Seven Questions: MVP Picks, Cooper Kupp Landing Spots, Bill Belichick’s Next Job, and More
Oct 23, 2024
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The hosts kick off with a lively analysis of DeAndre Hopkins' trade, sparking debates on Cooper Kupp's potential landing spots. They dive into sleeper MVP picks, dissecting both rookies and veterans. The NFC North showdown heats up as they predict the division's powerhouse. The conversation shifts to the Jets' playoff chances and Bill Belichick's uncertain future, discussing possible teams like the Jaguars and Giants. Lastly, they speculate on which team could snag the first pick in the upcoming draft.
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Quick takeaways
DeAndre Hopkins' trade to the Chiefs aims to enhance their offensive performance amid concerns over his age and injury history.
Speculation about Cooper Kupp's potential landing spots emphasizes the balance between immediate team needs and long-term financial implications.
Bill Belichick's uncertain coaching future highlights contrasting opinions on his next move in the NFL or possibly a return to college coaching.
Deep dives
DeAndre Hopkins' Move to the Chiefs
DeAndre Hopkins has been traded from the Tennessee Titans to the Kansas City Chiefs for a conditional fourth-round pick, which could potentially turn into a third-round pick. This move was seen as necessary for the Chiefs, who had been underwhelming on the field despite the presence of star quarterback Patrick Mahomes. The addition of Hopkins provides the Chiefs with a reliable receiver who can make contested catches and alleviate some pressure from star tight end Travis Kelsey, especially if defenses decide to double-team him. However, there are concerns regarding Hopkins' age and injury history, as he has been less productive this season compared to the previous year.
Implications for Chiefs' Offense
The trade has sparked discussions about how it will impact the Chiefs' offensive dynamics, which have exhibited some angst this season. Some experts believe that while Hopkins adds depth, he brings a skill set similar to Kelsey’s, potentially leading to redundancies. Furthermore, there are lingering questions about Mahomes' ability to optimize the offensive system with the new additions. As the team looks to bolster its performance heading into the playoffs, the integration of Hopkins will be crucial in determining how effectively the Chiefs can navigate challenging postseason encounters.
Cooper Kupp Trade Considerations
Discussions have also revolved around hypothetically trading Cooper Kupp, with various teams suggested as potential landing spots. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have been highlighted as a team that could benefit from acquiring Kupp, especially given their struggles with injuries among wide receivers. However, the financial implications of such a move may deter teams from pursuing Kupp aggressively. In contrast, some analysts posit that if the price is right, bringing Kupp into a competitive roster might be worth the gamble, illustrating the pressures teams face when weighing immediate needs against future commitments.
NFL Playoff Predictions
As the NFL season progresses, analysts are evaluating possible outcomes for playoff teams, specifically focusing on the NFC North division, where the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions emerge as strong contenders. The Packers, led by quarterback Jordan Love, are seen to have the momentum as they develop their young roster, while the Lions showcase a high-powered offense capable of significant success. Debates continue around the Vikings' viability, with many viewing their earlier success as potentially unsustainable. Ultimately, confidence in the Packers' experience and talent distribution is driving predictions that they may clinch the division.
Future Coaching Changes
The discussion of coaching changes has presented Bill Belichick as a central figure, with speculation about his future engagement in the NFL. Some analysts predict he may transition to coaching the Jacksonville Jaguars, where a reunion with his former connections could be appealing. Others suggest he might retire or find a position in college coaching, particularly with his ties to Rutgers. The general sentiment highlights a division in perceptions regarding his future, further complicated by the underwhelming performance of current NFL teams, raising the question of whether they would prioritize hiring Belichick over emerging coaching candidates.
From The Ringer studios in Los Angeles, Sheil Kapadia, Nora Princiotti, and Steven Ruiz deliver a special midweek show for you all today. After reacting to the DeAndre Hopkins trade (00:00), the trio tackles seven burning questions about the rest of the 2024-25 season:
Where will Cooper Kupp land? (06:50)
Sleeper MVP picks? (12:08)
Who will win the NFC North? (18:11)
Super Bowl picks? (26:10)
The Jets’ final record? (34:50)
Where will Bill Belichick coach next year? (43:56)
Which team will have the first pick in the next draft? (54:30)
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Hosts: Sheil Kapadia, Nora Princiotti, and Steven Ruiz