The Kansas City Chiefs are kings of the NFL mountain — but if they want to stay there, it’s time to get serious about upgrading the wide receiver room.
Enter: Amari Cooper.
The four-time Pro Bowler may be hitting the market, and if he does, the Chiefs should be the first team on the phone. Here’s why.
1. Mahomes Needs a Veteran WR He Can Trust
Let’s be honest — Patrick Mahomes made magic last season with a patchwork group of receivers, but the margin for error is shrinking.
With Travis Kelce aging and young talents still unproven, Cooper would give Mahomes something he hasn’t had since Tyreek Hill: a reliable, intelligent, route-savvy receiver who can consistently get open.
2. Cooper Doesn’t Drop the Ball
The Chiefs led the NFL in drops last season. That’s a stat no championship team wants on its résumé.
Cooper? One of the most dependable hands in football. His ball security and focus on third downs and in the red zone could change entire game plans for Kansas City.
3. He’s a Perfect Fit for Andy Reid’s System
Cooper isn’t a burner anymore — and that’s perfectly fine. His elite route-running and football IQ make him an ideal fit for Andy Reid’s creative offensive schemes.
Think option routes. Comebacks. Middle-field control. He thrives in all the areas where Mahomes needs a target he can read and trust.
4. Rashee Rice’s Status Is Unclear
With Rice facing potential discipline after off-field incidents, the Chiefs may be without their top young receiver for part of 2025. Signing Cooper gives the team instant stability and veteran leadership in a time of uncertainty.
5. He Won’t Break the Bank
Cooper is no longer a $20M-per-year player, and the Chiefs aren’t flush with cap space. But a short-term deal in the $8–12M range? That’s doable — and a steal for a player of his caliber.
6. He’s Still Got Gas in the Tank
In 2024, Cooper posted over 1,100 yards with Cleveland despite inconsistent quarterback play. He’s 30 years old and still producing, showing he can be a WR1 or a high-end WR2 on a contending team.
7. The Chiefs Need to Stay Ahead of the Pack
Buffalo, Baltimore, Cincinnati — the AFC is a gauntlet. If Kansas City wants to stay at the top, they can’t afford to stand pat. Cooper gives them a plug-and-play weapon who can make an impact from Day 1.
Final Verdict: Cooper Could Be the Piece That Secures the Three-Peat
The Chiefs are already the league’s standard. But signing Amari Cooper could be the quiet, calculated move that separates them just enough to hoist another Lombardi in 2025.
He’s polished. He’s proven. And he’s exactly what this offense needs right now.