The Buffalo Bills’ offseason has arrived earlier than fans would have liked, and now the team’s front office is faced with challenging decisions. One of the most pressing questions is what to do about wide receiver Amari Cooper.
Acquired midseason from the Cleveland Browns for a third-round draft pick, Cooper showed flashes of brilliance, making clutch plays that helped fill a gap in the Bills’ offense. The debate is whether these contributions justify his continued presence on the team, as opinions remain divided on whether the investment in Cooper paid off.
Cooper is among the 12 unrestricted free agents the Bills must consider before the new league year kicks off on March 12th at 4 PM. Ideally, the Bills would prefer to settle any potential contract extensions before the ‘legal tampering period’ or negotiation window begins on March 10th. Until then, discussions focus solely on re-signing potential free agents from their roster.
Taking a closer look at Cooper’s 2024 season, it’s clear that he gave quarterback Josh Allen a reliable outlet, especially against stubborn man coverage. Cooper’s numbers, 20 catches for 297 yards, don’t jump off the page, but his quiet efficiency made a difference in the regular season.
However, come playoff time, Cooper’s impact dwindled, managing just five targets, four catches, and 33 yards. While Cooper wasn’t the reason the Bills exited the playoffs early, the team certainly needed more from their receiver.
The projection from Spotrac suggests a two-year, $28.4 million contract for Cooper, reflecting his performance and tenure in the NFL. Given his age and the lack of a standout season in 2024, a long-term offer seems unlikely. Nonetheless, Cooper’s reliability over his decade-long career and effectiveness against man coverage hint at potential value for a contender.
By retaining Cooper, the Bills could avoid a sense of urgency in free agency and the 2025 NFL Draft, allowing them to pursue the best players available without being forced to fill a glaring hole at receiver. Cooper would benefit from a full offseason with the team, potentially boosting his productivity beyond the half-playbook he navigated in 2024.
On the flip side, the decision isn’t straightforward. Even with Cooper, the Bills recognize the need to strengthen the receiver position in 2025.
Cooper’s presence didn’t elevate the offense significantly, suggesting that just retaining him might not suffice. Financially, the Bills are in a tight spot.
Spotrac’s contract projection demands a commitment that may not offer a guaranteed return on investment, potentially mirroring previous situations with other receivers like Curtis Samuel.
Ultimately, the Bills are in a difficult position. Letting Amari Cooper walk isn’t an indictment of his talent or professionalism; he’s proven himself a valuable teammate.
However, without the assurance of consistent, long-term production, it’s hard to justify his financial commitment. Buffalo must weigh its options carefully, looking toward other candidates for roster renewal.
While Cooper’s departure would be felt, the Bills can’t afford to compromise their future by settling.
