Why DeAndre Hopkins is an advocate for domestic violence victims: It starts with his mother

There's no doubt DeAndre Hopkins will make an impact for the Tennessee Titans after signing a 2-year, $26 million contract during the offseason.

He's a smooth operator on the field, bringing more than a decade of experience, 853 catches and 71 touchdowns to Nashville. No wonder star running back Derrick Henry recruited Hopkins.

But Hopkins could make an even greater impact off the field, like he's accomplished at previous NFL stops in Houston and Arizona.

Hopkins said Tuesday he will continue his philanthropic work this upcoming season through his family's charity, S.M.O.O.O.T.H. (Speaking. Mentally. Outwardly. Opening. Opportunities. Toward. Healing). His mother, Sabrina Greenlee, is the founder and president.

"Right now, we are working getting that certified here in Tennessee," Hopkins said Tuesday.

The nonprofit has empowered women affected by domestic violence, helping them overcome abuse by connecting survivors to community resources for counseling, internships, mental health and legal assistance and emotional and financial assistance.

Bringing domestic violence awareness to Nashville

Greenlee, an inspirational speaker, has survived multiple cycles of abuse, including a violent attack in 2002 that left her blind and seared her body when Hopkins was 10.

"I want women to look at my life and my testimony as true example of resilience and strength," Greenlee said on her website. "I want people to understand that there truly is life after death, Getting on the right path to building your better self through prayer, forgiveness, determination and obtaining peace is possible."

Hopkins has been at the forefront of advocating for domestic violence, even introducing Hop Box, a honey nut oat cereal, while with the Arizona Cardinals. Proceeds supported domestic violence survivors.

Hopkins arrives in a city where through July 25, there were 5,227 reports of domestic violence this year; 1,369 in which children were present. There were 9,435 domestic violence victims reported in Nashville in 2022.

Hopkins: Influenced by his mother

In addition to bringing S.M.O.O.O.T.H. to Music City, Hopkins said he and his team are working to bring other grassroot ideas.

As he addressed media Tuesday, Hopkins spoke about his mother' influence on him, from how he chooses his eclectic wardrobe to his charity work.

Think about it. How many NFL receivers have walked a runway at a fashion show?

In April, Hopkins walked in Fear of God's first fashion show, held at Hollywood Bowl. He wore a boxy black work jacket and matching pants that featured the brand's signature long drawstring. His look was accessorized with bright blue gloves and a sling bag.

Hopkins, originally from South Carolina, has S.M.O.O.O.T.H. offices in Clemson, where he played college football, and Houston, where he was drafted by the Texans in 2013, the beginning of his NFL journey.

Hopkins has also worked with Houston Children's Charity, AVDA-Aid, which provides aid to domestic violence victims, and the Boys and Girls Club of America.

Hopkins' highlights during his 11-year career may one day earn him a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

But off the field, with the help of his mother, the five-time Pro Bowl receiver is hoping to make an even greater impact.

Reach reporter Craig Shoup by email at cshoup@gannett.com and on Twitter @Craig_Shoup. To support his work, sign up for a digital subscription to www.tennessean.com

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Titans WR DeAndre Hopkins to help Nashville domestic violence victims