In a move that left fans and analysts alike scratching their heads, the Buffalo Bills made a bold statement by acquiring five-time Pro Bowl WR Amari Cooper from the Cleveland Browns. This came just hours after their victory over the New York Jets and the Jets’ acquisition of three-time All-Pro WR Davante Adams.
The Bills, currently sitting at a 4-2 record and leading the AFC East, shocked the league by trading away WR1 Stefon Diggs in the offseason. With Cooper now in the mix, the Bills’ passing game, ranked 25th in the league, is expected to get a major boost. This move also allows younger receivers Khalil Shakir and rookie Keon Coleman to step into more prominent roles and further develop within the offense.
GM Brandon Beane managed to secure Cooper for a relatively low price of a 2025 third-rounder and a pick swap of Day 3 selections. This deal looks even more impressive when compared to the Jets’ acquisition of Adams or the Texans’ trade for Diggs. The Bills will have to re-sign Cooper to keep him beyond this season, adding another layer of intrigue to the transaction.
Cooper, who struggled to produce in Cleveland with QB Deshaun Watson, now finds himself in a better situation in Buffalo. The move should benefit both parties, with Cooper having the opportunity to showcase his skills in a new environment and potentially earn a lucrative contract in free agency.
“It’s always frustrating to lose,” Cooper said, reflecting on his time with the Browns. “To lose in the fashion we did is even more frustrating.”
With offensive coordinator Joe Brady leading a more run-centric approach, Cooper’s addition offers a chance to diversify the offense and elevate his own performance. The veteran receiver, accustomed to playing in cold weather conditions, could be a key piece in the Bills’ quest for success this season.
As Cooper transitions to his new team, the Browns find themselves in a precarious situation with Watson at the helm. The quarterback’s struggles to connect with his receivers have left fans questioning the franchise’s decision to acquire him. The Browns’ inability to move on from Watson only adds to the growing discontent among fans, who lament the missed opportunity to send him elsewhere.
The NFL landscape has been reshaped once again, with the Bills making a statement that they are serious contenders in the AFC. As Cooper dons the Bills’ jersey, all eyes will be on him to see if he can help propel the team to even greater heights.