What can we expect from former Mizzou Linebacker Ty'Ron Hopper

As the NFL preseason continues, both rookies and veterans must make the most of their playing time to secure a spot on the team’s Week 1 roster.

Ty’Ron Hopper, the 6’2”, 230-pound linebacker, capped off his college career on a high note, playing a key role in Mizzou’s defense, which was among the nation’s best last season. His efforts helped secure a Cotton Bowl victory against the powerhouse Ohio State Buckeyes. In 2023, he was a contender for the Butkus Award, given to the nation’s top linebacker.

After two years at the University of Florida, the North Carolina native transferred across the SEC to Mizzou.

Hopper concluded his fifth college season with nearly 60 tackles and 3 sacks in just 10 games. He also contributed 6 tackles for loss, earning him a top 100 draft pick by the Green Bay Packers. With the team planning to switch to a 4-3 defense next season, Hopper could see more opportunities as an off-ball linebacker.

He logged 6 tackles in his NFL preseason debut, after an injury kept him sidelined in their first contest against the Cleveland Browns. With the NFL season just a hop and a skip away, he’ll have to increase his play style and up his numbers even more, preparing for Week 1 in just seven days.

“I got to play faster, be more decisive“ Hopper said in the locker room following a preseason loss to the Denver Broncos. “I just need to keep adding things to my game and play better“

After an impressive start, Hopper will need to maintain his performance and stay healthy. Currently taking reps with the number twos, he aims to join five other Mizzou rookies across the league, four of whom came from the defense he led last season.