As the NFL season approaches, one of Clemson’s greatest receives a major honor.
CLEMSON, S.C. — When DeAndre Hopkins steps onto campus this fall as part of Clemson’s 2025 Athletic Hall of Fame class, he’ll do so not just as a legendary former player—but as one of the few still actively adding to his legacy.
The wide receiver known as “Nuk” carved out his place in Clemson history over three seasons from 2010 to 2012, but what’s most remarkable is how his greatness has extended well beyond his college days.
Hopkins was a transformative talent at Clemson, helping the Tigers to their first ACC Championship in two decades in 2011, then erupting for an ACC-record 18 touchdown receptions in 2012. He left campus with 206 catches for 3,020 yards and 27 touchdowns—then a school record. His 12 100-yard games still rank second in program history.
Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (8) against the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX at Ceasars Superdome.
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Since being drafted in the first round by the Houston Texans in 2013, Hopkins has built a professional career that mirrors the dominance he showed in college. He spent seven seasons in Houston before moving on to the Arizona Cardinals (2020–2022), then had stints with the Tennessee Titans and Kansas City Chiefs in 2023 and 2024, respectively.
Now a member of the Baltimore Ravens heading into the 2025 season, the five-time Pro Bowler and All-Pro selection remains a key weapon on Sundays.
Hopkins leads the NFL in total receptions since his rookie year and ranks among the league’s all-time top 25 in catches, yards, and touchdowns. His enshrinement in Clemson’s Hall of Fame is a celebration of what he’s already achieved—but also a reminder that his story is far from finished. For Clemson, Hopkins represents the gold standard. For the NFL, he’s still very much a problem.
