Cameron Dicker becomes Chargers' kicker as Browns trade Dustin Hopkins for draft pick

The Chargers traded Dustin Hopkins to Cleveland for a 2025 pick, choosing Cameron Dicker as their starting placekicker.

In a surprising move, the Los Angeles Chargers have traded placekicker Dustin Hopkins to the Cleveland Browns in exchange for a seventh-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This decision comes as the Chargers have chosen to go with Cameron Dicker as their starting kicker for the upcoming season.

Dicker, who had an outstanding rookie year in 2022, has continued to impress during training camp and the preseason. At only 23 years old, Dicker is significantly younger than Hopkins, who is nine years his senior. Additionally, Dicker has remained injury-free while Hopkins has been dealing with various injuries in recent weeks.

Since joining the Chargers in Week 9 last year, Dicker has showcased his accuracy and reliability. He successfully made 19 of 20 field goal attempts and converted all 22 of his extra point tries. Dicker's opportunity arose when Hopkins suffered a hamstring injury, forcing the team to turn to the young kicker.

Dicker's talent was on full display during the Chargers' AFC wild-card playoff game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. He made three extra points and nailed field goals from 22, 23, and 50 yards. However, he did miss a crucial 40-yarder in the fourth quarter, contributing to the Chargers' narrow 31-30 defeat.

Meanwhile, Hopkins made his final appearance for the Chargers in Week 6 against the Denver Broncos. Despite playing through injury, he managed to make an extra point and four field goals, including a game-winning 39-yarder in overtime. Throughout his time with the Chargers, Hopkins boasted an impressive record, making 27 of 30 field goals and 42 of 44 extra points in 16 games.

General manager Tom Telesco expressed his admiration for Hopkins, praising his professionalism and contributions to the team both on and off the field. The Chargers organization holds Hopkins in high regard and recognizes his valuable presence as a teammate.

As for Cleveland, Hopkins will step in to replace Cade York, a fourth-round pick from the 2022 NFL Draft. The Browns are expected to waive York, making room for Hopkins to take over the kicking duties.

Overall, this trade signifies the Chargers' confidence in Cameron Dicker's abilities and their belief that he is ready to take on the starting role. While Hopkins leaves a lasting impact on the Chargers organization, the team looks forward to what the future holds with Dicker as their new kicker.

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