The Arizona Cardinals are quietly building one of the NFL’s most intriguing young receiving corps, but significant depth concerns could derail their 2025 playoff aspirations.
With second-year star Marvin Harrison Jr. and fellow sophomore Michael Wilson leading the charge, the team lacks proven veterans behind them.
One familiar name has emerged as a potential solution: five-time Pro Bowl receiver Amari Cooper, whose availability could provide both on-field insurance and invaluable mentorship for Arizona’s young stars.
Arizona Cardinals Could Target Amari Cooper to Strengthen Depth and Guide Marvin Harrison Jr.
According to ESPN analyst Aaron Schatz, veteran wide receiver Cooper represents a logical target for the Cardinals, who currently feature Harrison Jr. and promising second-year wideout Wilson as their primary weapons.
Schatz highlighted the team’s vulnerability at the position, explaining, “The Cardinals have a strong set of young wide receivers with Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson, but the depth past that is questionable.”
The Marvin Harrison Jr. breakout season is upon us.
( @AZCardinals) pic.twitter.com/Cwi3rpcr4M
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) June 9, 2025
The supporting cast raises legitimate concerns about Arizona’s offensive depth. While Greg Dortch has proven reliable in the slot, he lacks the size and skill set to function as an outside starter.
Zay Jones arrived with veteran experience but managed just eight catches for 84 yards in 2024 while battling injuries. Additionally, 28-year-old Simi Fehoko brings minimal NFL production with only 10 career receptions through four seasons.
This shortage of experienced receivers behind Harrison and Wilson underscores why pursuing a veteran like Cooper makes strategic sense. Despite Cooper’s challenging 2024 season, Schatz noted that he remains the top available option among outside receivers on the free agent market.
“The Cardinals could use a veteran who can come in for Harrison and Wilson when both need to rest or if either of them is injured,” Schatz wrote in his analysis.
Cooper’s Struggles and Potential for Redemption
Cooper’s 2024 campaign fell well below his established standards. After starting the season in Cleveland, he was traded to Buffalo on October 15, 2024, but the change of scenery failed to reignite his production.
Across both teams, Cooper managed just 44 catches for 547 yards and four touchdowns. ESPN’s tracking metrics painted an equally disappointing picture, ranking him 80th in receiving DVOA.
However, context provides important perspective on these numbers. Cooper’s brief tenure in Buffalo alongside MVP quarterback Josh Allen never allowed him to establish rhythm or chemistry.
Moreover, the instability in Cleveland’s quarterback room before the trade, where Deshaun Watson struggled significantly, likely contributed to Cooper’s statistical decline. A fresh start in Arizona, with clearly defined expectations and reduced pressure, could facilitate a return to form.
Recent developments suggest Cooper’s market may finally heat up. According to an April article from Pro Football Network, teams showed renewed interest following the draft. The initial hesitation appeared less connected to performance concerns than questions about Cooper’s future plans.
Amari is done. That’s not me talking. That’s from an offensive coach of a former team of his I spoke to at the Combine
— Matthew Berry (@MatthewBerryTMR) March 14, 2025
NBC Sports’ Matthew Berry reported that a coach from one of Cooper’s former teams claimed the wide receiver was “done,” though the comment’s exact meaning remains ambiguous. The statement could reference retirement plans or simply suggest Cooper has passed his prime as an elite receiver.
Despite these concerns, Arizona presents an ideal landing spot if Cooper desires to continue playing. Beyond addressing the Cardinals’ depth issues, he would provide crucial veteran leadership for Harrison, widely regarded as one of the most talented receiver prospects in recent memory.
Cooper’s route-running expertise and professional approach could accelerate the rookie’s development while giving quarterback Kyler Murray another reliable target.
For both parties, a short-term, incentive-laden contract would minimize risk while maximizing potential rewards. The Cardinals would gain experienced depth without a significant financial commitment, while Cooper would receive an opportunity to rehabilitate his value in a lower-pressure environment.
