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Daeden Hopkins excels as Missouri edge rusher in sophomore season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 16, 2026, 8:06 AM

Last updated Sep 16, 2026

Daeden Hopkins excels as Missouri edge rusher in sophomore season

Summary

Daeden Hopkins has emerged as a key player for Missouri football during the early part of the 2026 season. After being named Co-SEC Defensive Lineman of the Week, he recorded eight pressures against Kansas, leading all players in that category for Week 2. With significant departures from last year's roster, including the transfer of Damon Wilson II and the NFL draft of Zion Young, Hopkins is stepping up as one of the primary edge rushers. He has increased his weight and improved his run defense, positioning himself as a crucial athlete for the Tigers. Coach Eli Drinkwitz praised his work ethic and development, indicating that Hopkins is expected to play a big role this year.

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By the Numbers

•Hopkins from Hermann, Missouri, starting his sophomore season with strong performance.
•He recorded eight QB pressures against Kansas in a Week 2 win.
•Only three players in the nation have more than his 12 pressures this season.
•Missouri lost significant talent at edge rushing during the offseason.
•Coach Eli Drinkwitz commended Hopkins' work ethic and improvement.

Latest Updates

8:06 AMYahoo Sports — Can Daeden Hopkins become Missouri football’s next great edge rusher?

What they're saying

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From nearby Hermann, Missouri, Daeden Hopkins has had a fast start to his sophomore season with Mizzou. Can he be MU's next excellent edge rusher?
— Yahoo Sports

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