Wide receiver Amari Cooper is exploring new opportunities after a difficult 2024-25 season. Having been traded to the Buffalo Bills, a team expected to contend for the Super Bowl, Cooper faced disappointment when the Bills fell to the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship game. Now a free agent, he is considering his options to continue his NFL career, with the Los Angeles Chargers appearing as a promising destination.
Why the Chargers Could Be the Right Fit for Cooper
The Chargers have emerged as a logical landing spot for Cooper, according to NFL.com senior writer Kevin Patra. Despite a challenging year where Cooper recorded just 24 receptions for 250 yards and two touchdowns over six games with the Cleveland Browns, followed by 20 catches for 297 yards and two more touchdowns in eight games with the Bills, Patra maintains that Cooper still has value as an experienced receiver.
Last year wasn’t pretty for Cooper…but there should still be gas left in the tank,
Patra stated. He highlighted Cooper’s ability to serve as a strong boundary target with a knack for finding openings in the red zone, traits that could help the Chargers’ offense.
Replacing the Void Left by Mike Williams’ Retirement
The retirement of Mike Williams created a notable gap in the Chargers’ receiving group, which Cooper could help fill. While the team remains confident in its younger players, the decision to re-sign Williams earlier underscored his previous importance. Cooper’s veteran presence would bring leadership and stability to a relatively young corps.
Although Cooper would not be expected to take over as the primary receiver— a role likely to be held by Ladd McConkey—the veteran would complement emerging talents like Quentin Johnston and serve as a dependable option behind rookies Tre Harris and KeAndre Lambert-Smith, especially as they adapt to professional play.
Cooper’s Past Performance and Potential Contribution
Cooper’s playoff production last season was limited, totaling only 41 receiving yards in three games for Buffalo, reflecting a decline from the more productive years earlier in his career. With McConkey set as the Chargers’ WR1, Cooper could ease the offensive burden by offering consistent support without the expectation to perform at peak levels. His best seasons included 547 yards and four touchdowns, which stand as career lows but still indicate his ability to contribute meaningfully.
If Cooper can regain even part of his former effectiveness, he would provide valuable depth and experience to support quarterback Justin Herbert’s passing game. The Chargers have actively sought to strengthen their receiving lineup, including drafting two receivers in recent NFL drafts and managing the roster changes following Williams’ retirement.
The Path Forward: Cooper’s Role in a Playoff-Ready Chargers Team
As Cooper weighs his options this offseason, the Los Angeles Chargers represent a suitable environment for revitalizing his career. His veteran skills could not only enhance the team’s offensive versatility but also offer mentorship to younger players as the Chargers pursue playoff success. This potential signing would align with the Chargers’ goal of boosting their offensive weapons around quarterback Justin Herbert to remain competitive in the coming season.