In the summer, DeAndre Hopkins was able to test out the free agency market for the first time in his career. But as he reveals in an interview, finding a new team was not so easy.

DeAndre Hopkins was released in May for the first time in his pro career after three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals. The active player, with the most receiving yards in the NFL, went in search of a new team.

But his time as a free agent was more protracted than Hopkins had thought: “There were a few teams that were on my list that I called, but they never called me back,” he tells “GQ”.

The Detroit Lions, Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants and San Francisco 49ers reportedly turned down the five-time All-Pro, Hopkins reveals in the interview.

In the end, the superstar receiver opted for the Tennessee Titans. A decision that met with criticism in the media.

Because after 11 years with the Texans and the Cardinals, two teams that were never among the title contenders, Hopkins had the opportunity to switch to a true contender, according to many. Currently, the Titans are probably not one of them.

However, Hopkins is happy with his decision, and he’s taking the callbacks he didn’t receive as extra motivation going into the new season: “I’m very grateful to be here. I think I made the right decision. I can’t wait to play against them and do my best to kick their asses.”

Hopkins recorded 717 yards and three touchdowns in nine games last season after missing the season opener due to a doping suspension. The Tennessee Titans kick off the new season Sunday in New Orleans against the Saints.