Hopkins’ 2023-season glow is acknowledged, but the current context paints him as a stabilizing but not game-changing asset; his role will hinge on how Cleveland prioritizes consistency in a hostile slate.

Hopkins was Cleveland’s veteran option who regressed recently, leading the Browns to keep Szmyt over him. The decision to part with Hopkins and avoid kicking-competition signals a shift toward cost-conscious development of Szmyt as the long-term answer.

Hopkins is noted as the Browns’ kicking backup contender turned primary kicker in training camp, later displaced by Szmyt for Week 1. His veteran profile and backup status are part of the kicker depth story behind Szmyt’s Week 1 miss.

Hopkins exited Cleveland after two seasons, including a down year, clearing the room for Szmyt. Hopkins had 287 regular-season FG tries in his Browns stint and a playoff kick, leaving a veteran footprint behind as Szmyt takes the extended audition for a Week 1 pressure cooker.

Hopkins was cut by Cleveland after a down preseason, ending a short, high-paid stint. The move opens the kicking duties to competition and raises the floor for Browns’ kicking depth, while inviting fantasy managers to monitor the position for better options on waivers or potential practice-squad signings.