Patriots: Ranking rumored wide receiver targets for New England
1. Amari Cooper
According to reports, the Cowboys are going to cut Amari Cooper loose when the new league year begins. He’ll be a free agent in a week and he won’t last long. He’s entering his age-28 season and has proven to be an elite option ever since being taken in the first round back in 2015 (fourth overall!).
Jerry Jones’ knee-jerk reaction could result in a big win for the Patriots should this pairing happen. The perennially-disappointing Cowboys underwhelmed yet again in 2021 and Cooper hauled in only 68 passes for 865 yards (but eight touchdowns) as the No. 1 option. He’s eclipsed 1,000 yards in five of his seven NFL seasons, and 2.5 came with the Raiders.
At 6-foot-1 and 210 pounds, Cooper isn’t the most imposing option on this list, but he’s a tremendous route runner, which is a paramount quality to possess in the Patriots’ offense (and just in general). He knows how to get open underneath and deep down field. His size allows him to shed tackles and fight for the extra yard. He has tremendous hands and has drastically cut down on his drops the last two years.
Another key here is getting Cooper for money alone in his prime. No trade needs to happen here. And you’re still getting at least three elite years from the former Alabama star, which perfectly fits Jones’ rookie deal window. Cooper is a prototypical all-around No. 1 receiver and will help open up the field for Meyers, Bourne and Hunter Henry. Pair that with a stout running game, and the Patriots could have a top-10 unit in 2022.
