This potential target is none other than Amari Cooper, a Pro Bowl receiver who signed a $100 million contract with Dallas in 2020.
Between now and the end of March, it would be ideal for the Cowboys to address their roster needs comprehensively. This includes securing a contract for Micah Parsons, adding a veteran offensive lineman to strengthen a struggling unit, bolstering the defensive line, and adding a pass rusher. Another running back would also be helpful, but one of their most pressing needs is finding a reliable No. 2 wide receiver to complement CeeDee Lamb. Interestingly, the most logical option may be a former Cowboy.
Cowboys’ Big Contract Led to a Trade
Two years later, the Cowboys decided to move on from Cooper, trading him to the Cleveland Browns for a modest return—a fifth-sixth round pick swap and an additional sixth-rounder. The trade was criticized as a salary dump and a puzzling decision, especially as the team later invested in Brandin Cooks and overpaid Michael Gallup.
Cooper excelled in Cleveland, recording 78 receptions for 1,160 yards and nine touchdowns in 2022, followed by 72 catches for 1,250 yards and five touchdowns in 2023, despite missing two games. His numbers declined last year with the Browns, where he struggled with injuries and inconsistent quarterback play.
After being traded to Buffalo mid-season, Cooper had a solid but unspectacular stint. The Bills hope he can prove to be a No. 1-caliber receiver in the playoffs.
Cooper will be a free agent afterward, and Bleacher Report suggests the Cowboys should consider bringing him back to partner with CeeDee Lamb.
Amari Cooper: A Logical Fit
Looking at the thin upcoming free-agent market, Bleacher Report ranks Cooper as the No. 11 target. Spotrac estimates his market value at a reasonable two-year, $28 million deal, something the Cowboys could manage. With their need for a complementary receiver to Lamb, re-signing Cooper seems logical, and Dallas (alongside the Patriots) is listed as a potential suitor.
Bleacher Report notes: “Statistically, Cooper wasn’t stellar this year, recording only 547 yards and four touchdowns on 44 receptions. However, he faced poor quarterback play in Cleveland and had to adapt to Buffalo’s offense mid-season. …
“A return to Dallas could make sense. While the Cowboys don’t have a young quarterback, they need a legitimate No. 2 receiver opposite CeeDee Lamb.”
