The Dallas Cowboys emerged from the 2025 NFL Draft without addressing a glaring need at wide receiver, leaving fans and analysts speculating about their next move. With CeeDee Lamb as their undisputed No. 1 target, the team lacks a reliable complementary receiver to alleviate defensive pressure on their star. According to recent reports, the Cowboys are exploring a blockbuster reunion with a familiar face: five-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Amari Cooper, whose market value is estimated at $37 million.
A Draft That Raised Eyebrows
Heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, many expected Dallas to prioritize a wide receiver, especially after losing out on Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan, who was selected by the Carolina Panthers at No. 8 overall. Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons visibly expressed his frustration when McMillan went off the board, highlighting the team’s desire to pair a dynamic pass-catcher with Lamb. Instead, Dallas focused on bolstering their trenches and defense, selecting offensive guard Tyler Booker (Round 1, No. 12), defensive end Donovan Ezeiruaku (Round 2, No. 44), and cornerback Shavon Revel Jr. (Round 3, No. 76), among others.
While the Cowboys’ draft class earned praise for its potential—Mel Kiper Jr. highlighted their strong haul—the failure to address the wide receiver position left a hole in the offense. Owner Jerry Jones acknowledged the oversight, stating the team remains open to adding a veteran pass-catcher to the roster. “We could look at adding to the wide receiver room with a veteran,” Jones said, per ESPN’s Todd Archer.
Amari Cooper: A Familiar Solution
Enter Amari Cooper, a name that resonates deeply with Cowboys fans. Cooper, who played for Dallas from 2018 to 2021, was a key component of their offense, earning two Pro Bowl nods during his tenure. Traded to the Cleveland Browns in 2022, Cooper has continued to perform at an elite level, amassing over 1,000 receiving yards in each of the past two seasons despite inconsistent quarterback play. Now, with Cooper set to hit free agency in 2026, the Cowboys are reportedly “building interest” in a reunion, according to Nick Harris of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
Cooper’s market value, projected at $37 million, reflects his status as a polished route-runner and reliable target. At 30 years old, he remains a viable No. 2 receiver who could thrive alongside Lamb and quarterback Dak Prescott. A trade for Cooper would likely require minimal draft capital, as his contract is in its final year, making him an attractive short-term solution with the potential for a long-term extension.
Why Cooper Makes Sense
The Cowboys’ current wide receiver depth chart is thin beyond Lamb. Jalen Brooks and Ryan Flournoy, drafted in 2023 and 2024 respectively, have yet to prove themselves as consistent contributors. Jonathan Mingo, acquired via trade in 2024, has been viewed as a developmental piece rather than an immediate impact player. Adding a proven veteran like Cooper could transform Dallas’ passing game, giving Prescott a trusted target and forcing defenses to spread their attention.
Cooper’s familiarity with the Cowboys’ system and culture is another advantage. During his time in Dallas, he recorded 292 receptions for 3,893 yards and 27 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to produce in high-stakes situations. His return could provide stability to an offense that struggled to a 7-10 record in 2024, hampered by injuries and a lack of firepower.
Challenges and Considerations
While the idea of a Cooper reunion is tantalizing, it’s not without hurdles. It’s unclear whether Cooper, now a seasoned veteran, would be open to returning to Dallas, especially after being traded away in 2022. Additionally, the Cowboys must weigh the cost of a trade—likely a mid-round draft pick—against other roster needs, such as running back, where they’ve also been linked to veterans like former Eagle D’Andre Swift.
Financially, Dallas is well-positioned to make a move, with over $37 million in salary cap space, per NFLPA figures. However, a chunk of that will be allocated to draft picks and other roster adjustments, which could complicate negotiations if Cooper seeks a lucrative extension.
What’s Next for Dallas?
Jerry Jones has a history of bold moves, having executed 72 trades since taking over the Cowboys in 1989. His recent comments about exploring “substantive trades” suggest that a deal for Cooper—or another high-profile target like Pittsburgh’s George Pickens—could be in the works. For now, the Cowboys appear committed to addressing their receiver woes through the trade or free-agent market rather than relying solely on their young, unproven talent.
As the 2025 season approaches, the Cowboys’ pursuit of Amari Cooper signals their intent to maximize Dak Prescott’s prime and keep pace in a competitive NFC East. Whether a reunion materializes remains to be seen, but the prospect of Cooper donning the star once again has Dallas fans buzzing with anticipation.