Just over three years after the Dallas Cowboys traded a first-round pick for Amari Cooper, the four-time Pro Bowl receiver is set to be released as one of the biggest NFL cap casualties in 2022.

The 27-year-old will enter NFL free agency at a great time. Davante Adams is expected to receive the franchise tag, taking the top wide receiver off the market. Meanwhile, Chris Godwin, Odell Beckham Jr. and Michael Gallup are recovering from torn ACLs.

  • Amari Cooper stats (2021): 68 receptions, 865 receiving yards, 12.7 ypc, 8 touchdowns
NFL

Dallas Cowboys likely to release Amari Cooper

It means Cooper becomes a top option for teams seeking a No. 1 receiver. Dallas loved his impact and he proved to be a go-to target for Dak Prescott, but salary-cap issues forced a drastic move.

With that in mind, let’s examine the best landing spots for Amari Cooper.

 

Jacksonville Jaguars land No. 1 receiver for Trevor Lawrence

The Jacksonville Jaguars enter the offseason with ample cap space, more than enough to sign a star wide receiver. With Adams off the table, barring a stunning surprise, the choice comes down to Godwin (torn ACL) or Cooper. Considering the former Cowboys’ receiver should be cheaper, Cooper becomes an attractive target.

Related: Top NFL free agents of 2022 – Davante Adams, Chris Godwin top loaded WR class

This is also a great move for Trevor Lawrence. The rookie never had a true No. 1 option and it’s fair to argue he lacked a competent No. 2 receiver. Cooper would draw 130-plus targets per season with the Jaguars and he could easily turn that into 90-plus receptions and 1,100 receiving yards

 

Amari Cooper returns home to Miami

Cooper grew up in Miami, playing football at Miami Northwestern Senior High School and becoming a star on the gridiron. After years spent in Alabama and Texas, there would be something special about a Miami reunion.

The Dolphins could create a version of the Cowboys’ passing attack, viewing Jaylen Waddle as their own version of CeeDee Lamb. If tight end Mike Gesicki is re-signed or tagged, Miami would surround quarterback Tua Tagovailoa with three great weapons that can make plays after the catch. For a passer who makes quick, accurate throws and is dependent on his teammates’ YAC ability, it becomes a nice fit.