The NFL Draft came and went without the Dallas Cowboys selecting a wide receiver, making it likely they’ll turn to the free-agent market to add depth. One familiar name reportedly on their radar.
While no deal appears imminent, there have been conversations about a potential reunion between the Cowboys and their former player. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, who spoke on SportsCenter (via Bleacher Report), there is “mutual interest” between the two sides.
Cooper first joined Dallas in 2018 when the Cowboys traded a first-round pick to acquire him from the Raiders. He went on to play three more seasons with the team, surpassing 1,100 receiving yards twice. After CeeDee Lamb emerged as the team’s top wideout, Cooper was traded to the Cleveland Browns in March 2022 in a deal involving late-round draft picks. Since then, Dallas has been looking for a solid supporting cast behind Lamb.
Brandin Cooks played a key role as a starter over the past two seasons, but he rejoined the Saints during free agency. That leaves the Cowboys with fewer veteran options, increasing the appeal of someone like Cooper. His production dipped in 2024, meaning he likely wouldn’t command a hefty contract — a crucial factor considering Lamb’s $34 million-per-year deal and the team’s need to remain financially flexible.
Cooper tallied 2,410 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns in two full seasons with Cleveland. However, quarterback instability hampered his impact last year, and a midseason trade to the Bills didn’t result in a significant role. Now heading into his age-31 season, Cooper isn’t expected to replicate his prime numbers, but he could still be a valuable contributor.
If the Cowboys move forward with interest, Cooper would join a receiver group that includes Lamb, Jalen Tolbert, Jonathan Mingo, Parris Campbell, and return specialist KaVontae Turpin. With around $34.5 million in cap space and other offseason priorities like extending Micah Parsons, Dallas will need to be strategic. Still, it will be worth watching if talks with Cooper gain momentum in the near future.