Buffalo Bills Land Star Wide Receiver Amari Cooper in Trade with Browns

The Buffalo Bills made a major move on Tuesday, acquiring star wide receiver Amari Cooper from the Cleveland Browns. This trade gives quarterback Josh Allen a proven No. 1 target as the Bills look to strengthen their offense for the remainder of the season.

In exchange for Cooper and a 2025 sixth-round draft pick, the Bills sent a 2025 third-round pick and a 2026 seventh-round selection to Cleveland. The deal addresses a key need for the Bills, who have been searching for a go-to wide receiver after trading Stefon Diggs to the Houston Texans earlier this season. The trade also comes on the heels of the New York Jets’ acquisition of Davante Adams, marking a busy day for AFC East teams.

Amari Cooper, 30, brings veteran experience and a strong track record of production to Buffalo. He’s in the final year of a five-year deal he originally signed with the Dallas Cowboys, and Cleveland’s decision to restructure his $20 million base salary into a signing bonus made him a more appealing trade option. Despite some struggles this season, Cooper is still regarded as one of the league’s top receivers.

Cooper’s production in Cleveland has taken a dip in 2024 as the Browns’ offense has struggled to find its rhythm. After posting a career-high 1,250 receiving yards in 2023, he has 250 yards and two touchdowns through six games this year. His 4.7 yards per target ranks second-lowest among NFL receivers, and his three dropped passes are tied for sixth-most in the league.

However, Cooper’s proven ability to perform at an elite level makes him a valuable addition to Buffalo’s offense, which has lacked consistency in its receiving corps since trading Diggs. The Bills’ wide receivers currently rank in the bottom third of the league in key categories such as targets, receptions, and receiving yards. Cooper’s arrival is expected to provide a significant boost, giving Josh Allen a reliable option downfield.

“Amari was a key player for us, and we’re grateful for everything he brought to the Browns,” Cleveland general manager Andrew Berry said in a statement. “He made a lot of great contributions on the field and was a big part of our 2023 playoff run. We wish him all the best in Buffalo.”

With five Pro Bowl selections and 691 career receptions for 9,736 yards and 62 touchdowns, Cooper’s addition immediately upgrades the Bills’ receiving unit. His ability to create separation and make plays in critical moments will be crucial for Buffalo as they aim to stay competitive in the AFC.

As the Bills gear up for the second half of the season, Cooper’s presence on the roster could be the spark they need to revitalize their offense and make a deep playoff run.