JUST NOW: Packers confirm a done deal just now with a Pro Bowl WR in blockbuster trade worth $100 Million
The Green Bay Packers have a lot of young talent at wide receiver, raising the question of whether they should trade for a proven star. This is the basis of a trade proposal suggested by Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report on Wednesday, September 4, in which he recommends a deal with the Cleveland Browns for Amari Cooper.
Knox outlined two possible scenarios where Cooper could become available. One involves the Browns falling out of playoff contention early and looking to trade the five-time Pro Bowler before he becomes a free agent in 2025. Knox noted that Cooper would be a valuable addition for a team like the Packers, which lacks an established No. 1 receiver.
At 30 years old, Cooper is entering the final season of his five-year, $100 million contract.
Amari Cooper Fits With Packers This Year, Potentially Long-Term on Right Contract
As of Wednesday, the Green Bay Packers have nearly $16 million in cap space. While Amari Cooper’s average annual salary is $20 million, Spotrac lists his 2024 cap hit at just $8.75 million. The financial aspect of acquiring Cooper is less of a concern compared to the cost of players the Packers would need to trade and whether they could sign him to a team-friendly, multiyear deal.
According to Spotrac, Cooper’s market value for a new four-year contract is over $22 million per year. However, the Packers might be reluctant to trade away inexpensive young talent for an aging player on the wrong side of 30. Any potential trade would likely require the Packers and Cooper to privately discuss an extension before a deal with the Browns could take place.
Cooper has consistently produced, surpassing 1,000 receiving yards in the last two seasons, including 1,250 yards and 5 touchdowns on 72 catches in 2023, earning him a Pro Bowl selection. Additionally, his durability has been solid, missing only seven out of 147 regular-season games in his nine-year career.
While Cooper would provide immediate value, the Packers are unlikely to overpay or sacrifice young talent for a player who may command more than $20 million annually as he ages.
Christian Watson Makes Most Sense as Trade Chip in Deal for Amari Cooper
Among the Packers’ top four receivers, Christian Watson might be the most attractive trade piece in a potential deal for Amari Cooper. As a high second-round pick with explosive playmaking ability, Watson brings the potential for a high ceiling. However, his injury issues over his first two seasons make him a risky option for a long-term investment.
Since entering the league, Watson has scored 14 total touchdowns in just 23 games and could add a deep threat to Cleveland’s offense, complementing quarterback Deshaun Watson. Meanwhile, Cooper would step into Green Bay as the clear No. 1 receiver, joining Romeo Doubs, Jayden Reed—who each caught 8 touchdowns last season—and Dontayvion Wicks, who added 4 scores.
Even if Cooper doesn’t remain in Green Bay long-term, he would solidify the Packers’ receiving corps for a Super Bowl push in 2024. Trading Watson before his free agency in 2026 could allow the Packers to focus on their promising trio of Doubs, Reed, and Wicks going forward.