Deshaun Watson is back in the news for all the wrong reasons, and his actions could indirectly lead to an Amari Cooper trade. The controversial quarterback faces a new lawsuit after being accused of yet another case of sexual assault and battery. The Browns traded for Watson knowing of alleged criminal behavior, but it’s unclear if they knew about this specific accusation. From a pure football standpoint, it’s too early to say what this lawsuit will lead to with any degree of certainty, but there is a chance this spells the end of Watson’s time with the Browns.
Cleveland knew Deshaun Watson was a truly vile human being when they traded for him and handed out a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract. However, Watson has been one of the worst quarterbacks in the league since joining the Browns, and this accusation could get Cleveland out of this deal. Watson’s contract could be voided for conduct detrimental to the team, and this lawsuit would qualify if Watson didn’t disclose it to the team at the time of the trade. Parting ways with Watson would likely mean a rebuild, and the best way for Cleveland to get draft picks is to trade wide receiver Amari Cooper to a needy team like the Los Angeles Chargers or Kansas City Chiefs.
A Deshaun Watson Suspension Could Lead to An Amari Cooper Trade
The Los Angeles Chargers are tied with the Kansas City Chiefs atop the AFC West. At 2-0, Los Angeles won their first two contests with a strong running game and ferocious defense. However, that won’t be enough to beat the elite offenses of the AFC, especially with Justin Herbert battling injuries. The quarterback recently suffered a high-ankle sprain, which will limit his mobility in the pocket. This team needs pass catchers capable of compensating for Herbert’s limited abilities, and Amari Cooper could be the ideal trade target.
2024 second-round pick Ladd McConkey and 2023 first-round pick Quentin Johnston had their moments early in the season, but this team could use an experienced veteran. Now playing in his 11th season, Amari Cooper is an ideal fit for the vacated Keenan Allen role, and the trade candidate could have a positive off-field impact as well. As a five-time Pro Bowler, Cooper can teach McConkey and Johnston how to go about life in the NFL and maximize their future in the league.
More Help For Mahomes
The Kansas City Chiefs entered the 2024 offseason with all the help they could need at wide receiver. Unfortunately, speedy wide receiver Marquise Brown suffered a preseason injury that will likely sideline him for the remainder of the season. Second-round pick Rashee Rice is as reliable as ever, but tight end Travis Kelce is slowing down and first-round pick Xavier Worthy is still learning the NFL game. Mahomes is phenomenal, but he could use more help to increase Kansas City’s odds of winning their third Super Bowl in as many seasons, and they could get it with an Amari Cooper trade.
Even though Amari Cooper is playing in his age-30 season, the trade candidate still has plenty left in his tank. After all, he’s one season removed from recording 1,250 yards with four different quarterbacks, so imagine what he could do with Mahomes? Maybe Kansas City spreads the ball around more, but he could easily fit in as a vital piece in one of the game’s best passing offenses.
Main Photo: Corey Perrine – USA Today Sports
