Chargers News: Insider Explains Bolts' Decision To Trade Dustin Hopkins

In some surprising roster news from Los Angeles, many were shocked to hear about a recent trade that the Chargers made. 

Dealing away kicker Dustin Hopkins, who was dealing with an injury, many, including GM Tom Telesco, pitched their thoughts about moving forward with Cameron Dicker for the job rather than the veteran. 

"From the day he arrived here, Dustin has been the consummate professional and a teammate anyone would love to have. He's made some big-time contributions to our organization, both on and off the field, and perhaps none more memorable than his game-winning kick last year on Monday night. On behalf of everyone at the Chargers, I want to wish Dustin, Gabby and his entire family continued success in Cleveland"

^{via Eric Smith, Chargers.com}

Bolts fans are familiar with Hopkins' heroics after he willed the team to victory on Monday night in Week 6 last season, booting four field goals and an extra point through the uprights all while dealing with a hamstring injury. 

Hopkins spent the first portion of his career in Washington, hitting 85% of his field goals and nearly 95% of his extra points. 

Picked up by the Chargers in the 2021 season, the former Florida State product continued his great accuracy with 90% of his kicks for the team in his two seasons with the franchise. 

Traded to the Browns earlier in the week for a draft pick, the Bolts opted for the younger Cameron Dicker for their placekicking duties in the 2023 season. 

For his heroics last season and throughout his Charger career, it's a tough decision, but moments like these remind us that the NFL is a business, and these choices are never easy. 

We're wishing Hopkins well in his future with not only Cleveland but hopefully more opportunities in the NFL for his later career as well.