NFL Trade Machine: Who Jumps Up For Amari Cooper?
By Erik Lambert
Even before his epic night in the Iron Bowl, Alabama receiver Amari Cooper was probably the hottest commodity among offensive weapons it was is arguably one of the better draft classes in recent memory. After watching him torch Auburn for over 200 yards and three touchdowns, it’s no longer a question of if an NFL team will take him in the top 5, it’s a question of who.
Sammy Watkins validates move by Buffalo Bills
Over the past couple years, polished receivers with great speed and versatility have become huge targets for teams in the draft. Tavon Austin started that trend coming out of West Virginia but it was Sammy Watkins this past May that has really set the standard. The Buffalo Bills gave up a future 1st round pick to get him at #4. It was considered a huge gamble, but the rookie is already showing flashes of what he will be in years to come with 51 catches for 695 yards and five touchdowns. That’s with E.J. Manuel and Kyle Orton throwing him the ball.
Crazy as it sounds though, Amari Cooper may be even better.
Trade could come fast if Oakland Raiders pass on him
That is why all eyes will be fixed on television screens when the 1st round begins next April. Cooper is going to go somewhere in the top 5, it’s just a matter of how. It could prove somewhat anticlimactic though. The Oakland Raiders are in desperate need of more firepower for their young quarterback Derek Carr. Cooper would be the perfect solution. However, there is also a lot of defensive talent that could prove too strong a lure for them. If the Raiders pass, all bets are. Somebody is going to make a move for him. Here are some possible teams that may pull the trigger.
Minnesota Vikings
Cordarrelle Patterson has been underachieving for the Minnesota Viking of late, leaving some to wonder if he’s just not cut out for the pro level. That may compel the team to go for the home run in Cooper so as to give their young quarterback Teddy Bridgewater a target to grow with.
Houston Texans
Andre Johnson is likely in his last year with the Houston Texans. DeAndre Hopkins is still there but they need another option if they want to keep their offense explosive and an aggressive pursuit of Cooper would do just that. Unless of course they decide to go quarterback instead.
Carolina Panthers
Defense and offensive line may rule the discussion now, but come draft day how can the Carolina Panthers ignore the opportunity to pair Amari Cooper with Kelvin Benjamin? Cam Newton would never have to worry about finding an open man again in his NFL career.