Because they are in the same division, the San Francisco 49ers play the NFC West rival Cardinals twice during the regular season. It is currently unknown how this new development will impact the matchups between the two teams because the NFL won't release the 2022 schedule until May 12.
We could learn the date of one of the two matchups earlier. The 49ers are candidates to serve as the road team for the Cardinals' regular-season international home game at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. That game's date and the Cardinals' opponent will be announced on Wednesday.
NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports that the Cardinals likely knew about the impending suspension heading into the draft, which explains why they traded for wide receiver Marquise Brown.
Hopkins, 29, contributed 42 receptions for 572 yards and eight touchdowns through 10 starts with the Cardinals last season, missing three weeks due to a hamstring injury and then landing on injured reserve on December 18 due to a torn MCL.
The Houston Texans drafted Hopkins (6-1, 212) out of Clemson with the No. 27 overall pick in 2013.
More San Francisco 49ers News
49ers announce minicamp tryouts along with signings of six draft picks, eight undrafted free agents Netflix Will Be the Home to Live NFL Games This Christmas Day 49ers expected to play 2 games on Monday Night Football during 2024 season 2024 Schedule Tracker: Known 49ers Games for the Upcoming Season