NFL
By: Edwin Duodu
The New York Jets need receiving help to anchor the progression of Zach Wilson. Although there were multiple standouts during the NFL Combine from the wide receiver group, there is now recent news that the Dallas Cowboys are preparing to release Amari Cooper. There is no reason why the Jets shouldn’t strongly consider the idea of trying to sign Cooper and giving more help to surround their young quarterback. He is the type of talent at receiver that the Jets could utilize to take the offense to the next level for the upcoming season.
There may be questions surfacing now on whether or not Cooper is still considered a No. 1 receiver on a team. Even if he isn’t, he sure would be a great No. 2 receiver on any contending team. Concerning the Jets, he would come in to take on the lead role as the top target for the team and offer matchup problems for Elijah Moore and Corey Davis, who are expected to be back next season.
Cooper would also bring in reliability as a wideout, hauling in at least 68 receptions in six of his seven NFL seasons. He’s also had a 1,000-yard receiving season five out of those seven years in the league. Last year, New York ranked fifth in the NFL for dropped passes. Not only did it hinder the growth of Zach Wilson, but it killed offensive drives and added on to the vast issues that the team dealt with. Every quarterback needs a security blanket and a player he trusts in critical situations.
Most importantly, Amari Cooper would bring durability to the organization. Out of 108 games, he’s played 101 of them, often playing through injury. The Jets have had major injuries to the receiver core within the past two seasons. Last year notably, their top offensive free agent, Corey Davis, only played nine games. Cooper was a key component within Dallas’s offensive scheme, and he could once again be crucial to an offense that has the potential to be remarkable.
In this year’s free-agent class, some top wide receivers are expected to gain plenty of attention from teams. That includes Davante Adams, Allen Robinson, Mike Williams, and potentially Amari Cooper. There is no excuse for Joe Douglass not signing at least one of these players. Cooper hitting the market may now make Douglass’s life easier. Until the time comes, Amari Cooper should be at the top of the wishlist for the Jets this offseason.
