Could the Dallas Cowboys Be in the Mix for a Trade to Reunite with Amari Cooper?
The Dallas Cowboys have been relatively quiet in the offseason, but could a reunion with former wide receiver Amari Cooper be on the horizon? With the Cleveland Browns reportedly exploring trade options for the four-time Pro Bowler, the idea of Cooper returning to Dallas is an intriguing possibility. However, the feasibility of such a move depends on multiple factors, including salary cap space, trade compensation, and the Cowboys’ offensive needs.
The Amari Cooper Trade: A Look Back
In 2022, the Cowboys made a controversial decision to trade Cooper to the Browns in exchange for a fifth-round pick and a swap of sixth-rounders. The move was primarily a salary cap decision, as Cooper carried a $20 million per year contract. At the time, Dallas believed that CeeDee Lamb was ready to be the team’s true No. 1 receiver and that the money saved could be better allocated elsewhere.
Since joining Cleveland, Cooper has continued to perform at a high level. In 2023, he recorded over 1,250 receiving yards and five touchdowns, proving he remains one of the league’s most reliable route runners and deep threats. Meanwhile, the Cowboys have had mixed results in replacing his production, with Michael Gallup struggling and Brandin Cooks having an up-and-down first season in Dallas.
Could the Cowboys Pull Off a Trade?
The Browns’ willingness to listen to trade offers for Cooper is largely a financial decision. He is entering the final year of his contract, carrying a $23.8 million cap hit, and Cleveland could be looking to reallocate resources or acquire draft capital.
For Dallas, a trade would require careful cap management. The team currently has limited financial flexibility, and absorbing Cooper’s contract without restructuring other deals would be a challenge. However, if the Cowboys and Browns could work out a deal involving a restructured contract or if Cleveland were willing to eat some of his salary, it could become more feasible.
Additionally, Dallas would need to assess the cost in terms of draft picks. Given that the Browns are reportedly seeking significant compensation, the Cowboys must weigh whether investing in Cooper again is worth sacrificing future assets.
Does It Make Sense for Dallas?
From a football perspective, bringing Cooper back makes plenty of sense. Pairing him with Lamb and Cooks would give Dak Prescott one of the best receiving trios in the NFL. Cooper’s ability to beat man coverage and create separation would provide a much-needed boost to an offense that struggled in key moments last season, particularly in the playoffs.
However, the Cowboys must also consider their long-term goals. They need to extend key players like Prescott and edge rusher Micah Parsons, which could make taking on Cooper’s contract less appealing. Additionally, with a strong draft class of wide receivers available, Dallas may opt to find a cheaper, younger option.
Final Verdict
While a trade for Amari Cooper would undoubtedly improve the Cowboys’ offense, it remains a long shot unless Cleveland is willing to lower its asking price or absorb some of his salary. The Cowboys have other pressing financial decisions to make, and investing significant resources in a player they previously traded away for cap reasons may not align with their current strategy.
Still, if Dallas is looking to make an aggressive move to improve their Super Bowl chances, reuniting with Cooper could be a gamble worth considering.