The Las Vegas Raiders are bringing a familiar face back to their roster, signing veteran wide receiver Amari Cooper to a one-year deal, sources confirmed. Cooper, who was originally drafted by the Raiders with the fourth overall pick in 2015, spent the last season splitting time between the Cleveland Browns and Buffalo Bills, and now returns to the team where his NFL career began.
The 31-year-old receiver had a productive, if not spectacular, 2024 campaign. With the Browns, he recorded 24 catches for 250 yards and two touchdowns over six games. After being traded to the Bills midseason, he added 20 receptions for 297 yards and two scores in eight games. Over the course of the year, Cooper totaled 44 catches on 85 targets for 547 yards and four touchdowns, proving he can still make an impact in the league.
According to Diana Russini, Cooper chose Las Vegas over the 49ers, who were actively courting the free agent.
Amari Cooper Returns to Raiders as Team Adds Veteran Receiver Depth
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Cooper’s decision to return to Las Vegas comes amid a shifting landscape for the Raiders’ receiving corps. Wide receiver Jakobi Meyers, the team’s top option, officially requested a trade, leaving Las Vegas in need of additional firepower. Last season, Meyers caught 87 passes for 1,087 yards and four touchdowns, but the team clearly recognizes that one top receiver is not enough to carry the offense.
The Raiders, who also feature a strong tight end group led by Brock Bowers and a promising running game with first-round rookie Ashton Jeanty, are hoping Cooper can complement Meyers and provide a reliable, go-to target for quarterback Geno Smith. Cooper’s experience and route-running skills could help stabilize the passing attack while giving the Raiders more flexibility in their offensive schemes.
For Cooper, the return to Las Vegas is a full-circle moment. “Man, it’s such a blessing,” he said upon being drafted by the Raiders in 2015. “I’m super excited and couldn’t ask for a better opportunity than God has put in my hands.” After a career that included stints with the Cowboys, Browns, and Bills, Cooper now has a chance to contribute to a team with postseason aspirations while showcasing his talent in a familiar setting.
The Raiders’ acquisition of Cooper represents a timely reinforcement as the NFL season approaches. With just weeks remaining until the regular season kicks off, Cooper will be expected to quickly integrate into the offense and provide depth at a critical position. If he can regain his form from earlier in his career, he could be a key component in Las Vegas’ push to compete in a highly competitive AFC landscape.