The Cleveland Browns (1-5) are currently closer to securing the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft than making the playoffs, and their recent decision suggests they don’t expect that to change soon.
On Tuesday, the Browns traded wide receiver Amari Cooper, a five-time Pro Bowler, along with a 2025 sixth-round pick to the Buffalo Bills in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick and a 2026 seventh-round pick.
Since acquiring Cooper in 2022, he has been Cleveland’s top receiver, recording 174 catches for 2,660 yards and 16 touchdowns. By trading him, the Browns seem to be acknowledging that their hopes of competing this season are fading, and they are starting to focus on the future.
Letting go of Cooper could also indicate that the Browns are beginning to recognize that their blockbuster trade for quarterback Deshaun Watson, followed by signing him to a fully guaranteed $230M, five-year deal, might have been a poor decision.
However, head coach Kevin Stefanski reaffirmed that Watson will remain the starter, believing he gives the team “the best chance to win.”
That stance may change soon, as the Browns have a key Week 7 AFC North game against the Cincinnati Bengals (2-4). Watson has struggled this season, throwing for only 1,020 yards, five touchdowns, and three interceptions in six games. If his performance continues to decline, especially without Cooper, the Browns might consider benching him. Cleveland will have to rely on wide receivers like Jerry Jeudy and Elijah Moore to fill the void left by Cooper.
Meanwhile, Cooper is embracing his fresh start with the Bills.
“Andrew Berry called me and explained the situation. I’ve always been a fan of Josh Allen’s game, and I’m excited to play alongside him. I’ve been in this position before, so that experience helps. I’m just looking forward to a new chapter and contributing to the team,” Cooper shared via NFL insider Josina Anderson.
