Pro Bowler Amari Cooper looking for a contract resolution but a trade is still possible this summer. According to a report, the Browns are still playing hardball to give Cooper an extension that keeps him around the team beyond this season. The veteran is doing everything in his power to get the deal he wants after holding out of mandatory camp. However, it’s only going to get difficult for the Browns to extend Cooper since they went through with Jerry Jeudy‘s extension.
Cooper is drawing eyes from the league after skipping mandatory camp, drawing a fine for his absence but it’s the only way to get the Browns to listen. Considering his importance to this offense, it would be logical for the team to consider exploring an agreement with their best pass-catcher. Cleveland is hoping that there’s a resolution before training camp but no one should expect that to happen. The Browns already restructured Cooper’s contract in 2022 and has gone through two offseasons without any guarantees on his deal.
Cooper’s patience is wearing thin so the clock is ticking for the Browns to strike a deal that keeps him around. The Browns would be foolish to not extend him considering the production he’s able to contribute to the offense. Cooper is showing no signs of slowing down even though he has an excellent track record of injuries. In 15 games, he was dominant after recording 72 passes for a career-high 1,250 yards and five touchdowns.
According to Spotrac, his market projects him at $88.289 million over four years for an average salary of $22 million. Deshaun Watson doesn’t want to see Cooper go after this upcoming season and the Browns don’t have any desire to let him. However, anything can happen in this league.
Pro Bowler Amari Cooper Looking for Contract Resolution, Trade Still Possible
Possible Trade Destinations
Los Angeles Chargers
It’s hard to see Jim Harbaugh starting his first NFL season back with some lack of weapons at the receiver position. They have some potential from rookie Ladd McConkey but no proven veteran to help reinforce this group. Cooper could provide some relief as their go-to receiver if Quentin Johnson and Josh don’t develop in time. Justin Herbert would have no problem developing chemistry with Cooper considering he could have the same skills as Mike Williams and Keenan Allen.
New Orleans Saints
Dennis Allen needs to wake up if he thinks Derek Carr will put on a better season with just Chris Olave as the only available weapon. Cooper would solve their depth issues if they move smart but the Saints don’t have the cap space. However, if they want to take the risk to be deep down in cap hell then that’s what they may have to do. It doesn’t go to say that adding one reliable veteran solves all the problems but a direction to changing the depth would go all the way.
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens wouldn’t have to worry about Rashod Bateman underperforming if they get Cooper. It would solve their issues in the deep threat so he can duo along with Zay Flowers. This offense could be one of the best if Cooper joins a Super Bowl-caliber team. He consistently gets better every season so they may as well give him some rounds as the No. 2 receiver while Bateman is in the slot.
Kansas City Chiefs
Cooper is strong enough to be WR1 material since Rashee Rice is going to miss some time this season. Xavier Worthy, Mecole Hardman and Marquise Brown can’t do it alone so one more receiver wouldn’t hurt. The Chiefs are still successful either way with relying on Travis Kelce but Cooper in the mix would probably make this team unstoppable.
