DeAndre Hopkins has made a living on catching passes for first downs for the Houston Texans. While Hopkins is arguably the best receiver in the NFL himself, the All-Pro wideout is enamored with watching Julian Edelman play the position.

“(He) always has a knack for getting the extra four or five yards,” Hopkins said of the Patriots receiver, via ESPN's Sarah Barshop. “He's one of my favorite receivers in the NFL because of that. Because he keeps the chains moving.”

This season, Hopkins is tied with Mike Evans for receptions that have resulted in a first down with 47 of them. The only player in the NFL who has caught more is Michael Thomas of the New Orleans Saints.

The Texans' gifted wide receiver has been a reliable option for Deshaun Watson since 2016. It's similar to how Edelman is a security blanket for Tom Brady and the New England Patriots.

Just last season, of Edelman's 74 receptions, 63 of them ended up moving the chains. That is a whopping 85 percent of his catches extending a drive for New England.

Hopkins is known for his spectacular catches, but this year he is averaging a career-low in yards per reception. The veteran pass-catcher is averaging only 9.9 yards per reception despite his effectiveness being nearly the same.

“I don't have to carry as much of a load as I used to, and I think that's a good thing,” Hopkins said. “We can depend on other players… Obviously, it makes the team better.”

The Texans will face off against the Indianapolis Colts on Thursday night in a game that could decide the AFC South. Provided that, Hopkins will want to continue racking up first downs to help Houston secure a victory.