The Los Angeles Chargers' wide receiver position became an even hotter topic of discussion when Mike Williams retired before training camp got underway. While some might have thought this was the perfect time for the Bolts to reunite with former fan favorite Keenan Allen, Kevin Patra of NFL.com thinks that Amari Cooper could make sense returning to the AFC West with the Chargers.
"The Chargers lost a receiver who could have provided those skills when Mike Williams decided to retire, abruptly ending his franchise homecoming. The L.A. brass has displayed confidence in the youngsters, but there was a reason Williams was signed to return this offseason in the first place. Cooper could serve as a veteran leader to the green corps."
Patra then goes on to discuss how Cooper wouldn't have to immediately step into the Chargers' offense and be the go-to guy, as Ladd McConkey has that role locked up. It's true that Cooper wouldn't be expected to do what he used to be known for, but truthfully, bringing him in at this stage of his career doesn't make sense for LA, especially now with KeAndre Lambert-Smith showing up big during the Hall of Fame game on Thursday night.
Chargers should steer clear of Amari Cooper in free agency
Cooper, the former fourth overall pick in the 2015 draft, used to be a downright stud. He was drafted by the AFC West foe Raiders and played in Oakland for three full years before he was traded to Dallas. Cooper continued to play well for the Cowboys but was traded to the Browns in 2022. Cooper was still performing at a high level until this past season where he struggled, both in Cleveland and in Buffalo.
The Bills had acquired Cooper hoping that he'd give their offense a boost heading into the back half of the regular season and playoffs but he didn't have much to offer by that point. Matthew Berry of NBC Sports previously posted on X back in March that, "Amari is done. That's not me talking. That's from an offensive coach of a former team of his I spoke to at the Combine".
It sure looked like Cooper was past his prime this past season and the Chargers don't need a player who will ultimately disappoint. If they're going to bring in a veteran option, why not reunite with Allen, who is beloved by the fans? No thanks on Amari Cooper.