Amari Cooper’s Next Chapter: Projecting Landing Spots for the Star WR in 2025 Free Agency
In the thrilling world of the NFL, where fortunes shift with every snap, the spotlight is now on Amari Cooper. After a 2024 season that saw him traded from the Cleveland Browns to the Buffalo Bills, the five-time Pro Bowler is set to enter free agency in 2025. While his production dipped to 44 catches for 547 yards and four touchdowns, Cooper’s proven track record and refined route-running skills make him a valuable asset for teams seeking a reliable receiver. With over 10,000 career receiving yards and seven 1,000-yard seasons under his belt, where will Cooper land next?
The Allure of a Veteran Presence
Despite turning 31 in June of 2025, Cooper remains a coveted player. His 2024 season, split between Cleveland and Buffalo, wasn’t his most statistically impressive. However, his struggles in Buffalo (20 catches for 297 yards) seemed more attributable to a crowded receiving corps and Josh Allen’s tendency to spread the ball around, rather than a decline in Cooper’s abilities. In Cleveland, even with inconsistent quarterback play from Deshaun Watson, Cooper managed 24 receptions for 250 yards.
Cooper’s value lies in his experience and reliability. He’s not the speedster he once was, but his precise routes and sure hands make him a dependable target. Teams looking for a veteran presence to complement young talent or to bolster a playoff push will find Cooper an attractive option.
Potential Landing Spots: A Deep Dive
Several teams could be in the mix for Cooper’s services in 2025. Let’s examine some of the most likely destinations:
1. New Orleans Saints: A reunion with Kellen Moore, now the Saints’ head coach, could be the key to revitalizing Cooper’s career. Moore served as Cooper’s offensive coordinator in Dallas from 2019 to 2021, during which Cooper averaged nearly 1,000 receiving yards per season. The Saints’ current receiving corps, led by Chris Olave, lacks a proven number two option. Cooper would provide Derek Carr with a reliable target and open up the field for Olave.
2. Las Vegas Raiders: A return to where it all began could be a compelling narrative for Cooper. The Raiders are aiming to be competitive with Geno Smith at quarterback. Adding Cooper would give the Raiders a solid WR2 alongside Jakobi Meyers and provide a veteran mentor for younger receivers like Jack Bech.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers were reportedly interested in acquiring Cooper at the 2024 trade deadline. With a need for a reliable receiver to pair with DK Metcalf, Cooper could be a valuable addition to their offense, especially if Aaron Rodgers joins the team.
4. San Francisco 49ers: With Brandon Aiyuk recovering from an injury and DeMarcus Robinson’s availability uncertain, the 49ers could use another experienced receiver. Cooper would provide Brock Purdy with a dependable target and add depth to their receiving corps.
5. Dallas Cowboys: A reunion with the Cowboys, where Cooper spent three and a half productive years, is another possibility. Despite a seemingly acrimonious departure, the Cowboys still have a need at receiver behind CeeDee Lamb. Cooper would provide Dak Prescott with a familiar weapon.
6. Arizona Cardinals: The Cardinals could be a sneaky landing spot for Cooper. While they drafted Marvin Harrison Jr., their receiving group is largely unproven. Cooper could provide Kyler Murray with a reliable veteran target.
7. New York Jets: The Jets extended Garrett Wilson, but lack proven weapons outside of him. Adding Cooper would give Justin Fields another reliable target.
The Contract Conundrum
Spotrac projects Cooper’s next contract to be worth around $14.2 million annually. This figure would place him among the top available wide receivers in the 2025 free agency class. However, his actual value will depend on his performance in 2024 and the demand for his services.
Browns’ Cap Situation and Cooper’s Departure
The Cleveland Browns restructured Cooper’s contract in July 2024, converting $18.79 million of his base salary into a signing bonus and adding two void years. This move created $15.032 million in cap space for the Browns in 2024 but also allowed them to designate Cooper as a post-June 1st release in March 2025.
The Wide Receiver Landscape in 2025
Cooper is part of a potentially strong class of free agent wide receivers in 2025, including Stefon Diggs, Keenan Allen, and others. The demand for receivers will influence Cooper’s market value and ultimately determine where he lands.
Final Thoughts
Amari Cooper’s next chapter promises to be an intriguing one. While his 2024 season was not his best, his proven track record and refined skills make him a valuable asset for several teams. Whether he lands with a contender seeking a veteran presence or a rebuilding team looking for a reliable target, Cooper is poised to make an impact in 2025 and beyond.