The Dallas Cowboys are reportedly looking to bring back wide receiver Amari Cooper, a familiar face who had some of his best seasons with the team. Following the NFL Draft, the Cowboys expressed interest in reuniting with the former Pro Bowl receiver, as they neglected the wide receiver position during the draft. According to ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler, there is "some mutual interest" between Cooper and the Cowboys, which adds a layer of urgency to the situation.
Cooper originally joined the Cowboys midway through the 2018 season and spent four productive years in Dallas, where he recorded 292 receptions for 3,893 yards and 27 touchdowns. His connection with quarterback Dak Prescott was particularly strong, making him a valuable asset during his tenure. However, the Cowboys traded Cooper to the Cleveland Browns, and after a lackluster season where he managed just 547 yards and four touchdowns while splitting time with the Buffalo Bills, he is now a free agent.
Despite his struggles in 2024, during which he battled a wrist injury, Cooper remains a player of interest for the Cowboys, who are in need of a reliable option to complement superstar receiver CeeDee Lamb. The Cowboys' decision not to address the wide receiver position in the draft has put additional pressure on them to secure a deal with Cooper, especially now that he has expressed a willingness to return.
Fowler noted that the Cowboys and Cooper could utilize available cap space this offseason to finalize a deal, which is crucial given the team's financial considerations. Cooper's projected market value is approximately $14.2 million per year, with a potential two-year contract worth around $28.5 million, a figure that appears manageable within the Cowboys' salary cap constraints.
As the Cowboys explore this reunion, it’s important to note that other teams, such as the Baltimore Ravens and New Orleans Saints, could also be in the running for Cooper's services. The Ravens, who have a strong roster but lack depth at wide receiver, could benefit from adding Cooper to their offense, especially with the potential departure of tight end Mark Andrews. Meanwhile, the Saints could use a veteran presence to help stabilize their passing attack, whether it be for Derek Carr or a developing quarterback.
Cooper's return to Dallas would not only provide a reliable second option behind Lamb but would also alleviate some of the pressure on the young receiving corps, which currently includes Jalen Tolbert, Jonathan Mingo, and KaVontae Turpin. His experience and past success with the Cowboys could contribute to the development of these younger players and enhance the overall effectiveness of the offense under new head coach Brian Schottenheimer.
In summary, the Cowboys' interest in Amari Cooper is a strategic move as they aim to bolster their receiving corps ahead of the 2025 NFL season. With Cooper open to a reunion and the Cowboys needing to fill a significant gap in their roster, the stage is set for a potential comeback. The ball is now in Dallas' court to make this reunion happen and capitalize on the opportunity to bring back a player who has proven his worth in the past.
