The Dallas Cowboys are at a crossroads with their wide receiver corps as they navigate the 2025 offseason. With CeeDee Lamb firmly established as their WR1, the team has struggled to find a reliable No. 2 receiver since trading Amari Cooper to the Cleveland Browns in 2022. Recent reports indicate “building interest” in a potential reunion with the former Pro Bowl receiver, but is bringing Cooper back the best move for Dallas? This article explores the Cowboys’ options at the wide receiver position and evaluates the feasibility of a Cooper reunion.
The Current State of the Cowboys’ Receiver Room
The Cowboys’ passing game revolves around Lamb, who has consistently delivered elite production, including 4,016 combined yards with Cooper during their two seasons together from 2019 to 2020. However, the depth behind Lamb remains a concern. Jalen Tolbert has shown flashes but lacks the consistency to be a true WR2. Veterans like Brandin Cooks have not meshed well with quarterback Dak Prescott, and younger players like Jonathan Mingo, Jalen Brooks, and KaVontae Turpin are better suited as complementary pieces rather than primary targets. The lack of a reliable second option has limited the Cowboys’ offensive ceiling, especially in critical moments.
The 2022 trade of Cooper for a fifth-round pick and a sixth-round pick swap remains a sore point for fans and analysts alike. Since his departure, Dallas has failed to adequately replace his production, with Cooper posting back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in Cleveland. The Cowboys’ offense, while potent, could elevate further with a proven veteran to complement Lamb and open up the playbook for first-year offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer.
The Case for an Amari Cooper Reunion
Recent reports from Nick Harris of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram suggest the Cowboys are exploring a reunion with Cooper, who is currently a free agent after a lackluster 2024 season split between the Cleveland Browns and Buffalo Bills. Cooper recorded just 547 yards and four touchdowns in 14 games, hampered by a wrist injury and adjustments to new systems. Despite this down year, his track record speaks for itself: seven 1,000-yard seasons in ten years, five Pro Bowl selections, and a proven rapport with Prescott.
Why It Makes Sense
Familiarity with Prescott and the System: Cooper’s four-year stint with Dallas (2018–2021) saw him amass 3,893 yards and 27 touchdowns. His chemistry with Prescott could lead to a seamless reintegration, minimizing the learning curve compared to signing an outside free agent.
Affordable Contract Potential: After a subpar 2024, Cooper’s market value is estimated at around $14.2 million per year, a significant drop from his previous $20 million annual salary. A one-year, $15 million deal, as speculated by some analysts, could be a low-risk, high-reward move for Dallas.
Immediate Upgrade: Opposite Lamb, Cooper would provide a reliable target who can still win one-on-one matchups. His presence would force defenses to spread their attention, potentially unlocking Tolbert or Turpin in the slot.
Cultural Fit: Cooper’s quiet professionalism was a positive during his Cowboys tenure, and his return could align with Schottenheimer’s emphasis on building a cohesive team culture.
The Concerns
Age and Declining Production: At 30, Cooper is no longer the dynamic playmaker he was in his prime. His 2024 struggles raise questions about whether injuries or a decline in speed have diminished his effectiveness. Some, like NBC Sports analyst Matthew Berry, have gone as far as to say, “Amari is done,” citing an offensive coach’s opinion.
Past Issues: The Cowboys’ decision to trade Cooper in 2022 was partly driven by concerns over his practice habits and contract demands. While these issues may no longer be as prominent, they could resurface in negotiations or on the field.
Opportunity Cost: Signing Cooper could divert resources from other needs, such as offensive line or defensive reinforcements. Additionally, the Cowboys could target younger receivers in the 2025 NFL Draft, like Missouri’s Luther Burden III, to build for the future rather than relying on a veteran.
Alternative Options at Wide Receiver
If the Cowboys decide against pursuing Cooper, they have several paths to bolster their receiver room:
NFL Draft: The 2025 draft class offers intriguing prospects who could serve as long-term solutions. Luther Burden III, with 86 receptions for 1,212 yards and nine touchdowns in his last college season, has been mocked to Dallas as a potential Cooper replacement. Other names like Tetairoa McMillan or Isaiah Bond could also provide dynamic playmaking. Drafting a rookie would be cost-effective and align with building around Prescott’s prime.
Other Free Agents: While Cooper is a high-profile name, other veteran receivers like Cooper Kupp have been linked to Dallas. Kupp, recently released by the Los Angeles Rams, offers a similar veteran presence and could mesh well with Prescott’s strengths, though his injury history and cost are concerns.
Trade Market: The Cowboys have a history of making splashy trades, as seen with Cooper in 2018 and recent deals for Trey Lance and Brandin Cooks. General manager Jerry Jones has hinted at “pretty substantive trades” in the past, and Dallas could explore the market for a younger, proven receiver under contract.
Internal Development: Jalen Tolbert, entering his fourth season, could take a step forward with more opportunities. While he’s unlikely to become a true WR2, improved coaching and scheming could maximize his potential as a No. 3 option, allowing Dallas to allocate resources elsewhere.
The Bigger Picture: Strategic Considerations
The Cowboys’ pursuit of a receiver, whether Cooper or another option, must fit into their broader offseason strategy. With Prescott’s contract extension looming and key players like Micah Parsons demanding attention, salary cap space is a concern. A short-term deal for Cooper could preserve flexibility, but a long-term commitment might hinder their ability to address other roster holes, such as right tackle or defensive tackle.
Additionally, the Cowboys’ front office must weigh the optics of admitting a mistake in trading Cooper. As Brandon Loree noted on X, a reunion could signal a shift under Schottenheimer’s leadership, acknowledging past errors and prioritizing winning over pride. However, fan sentiment remains mixed, with some still frustrated by the 2022 trade and others skeptical of Cooper’s current abilities.
Conclusion: Should the Cowboys Reunite with Cooper?
A reunion with Amari Cooper offers undeniable appeal: a proven veteran with ties to Prescott, a potentially affordable contract, and the ability to elevate the Cowboys’ offense in 2025. However, his age, recent production, and the team’s long-term needs raise valid concerns. While Cooper could be a short-term fix, drafting a young receiver or exploring other free agents like Kupp might better align with Dallas’ goal of building a sustainable contender.
Ultimately, the decision will hinge on Jones and Schottenheimer’s vision for the offense. If the Cowboys prioritize immediate impact and familiarity, Cooper is a logical choice. If they aim for youth and upside, the draft or trade market may hold the answer. For now, the “building interest” in Cooper keeps the door open for a reunion, but Dallas must carefully weigh its options to ensure the receiver position becomes a strength rather than a lingering question mark.