Amari Cooper did not attend mandatory minicamp with the Cleveland Browns earlier this month, and it seems clearer than ever now that his absence was contract-related.
Cooper is entering the final year of a 5-year, $100 million contract he signed in 2020 as a member of the Dallas Cowboys. Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said that the star wide receiver’s absence from minicamp was unexcused, though Stefanski would not confirm whether Cooper is seeking a new contract.
In a friendly conversation earlier this week, Cooper seemed to confirm it himself. Gambling personality Betr JoJo challenged Cooper to a foot race, and Cooper declined. The veteran receiver said he cannot afford to suffer an injury like a pulled hamstring since he is “trying to get paid this year.”
“I’m trying to get paid this year,” – Amari Cooper
(Via @betr) pic.twitter.com/7DgBIPGpzV
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) June 25, 2024
While the conversation was just friendly banter, it probably gave a glimpse into Cooper’s mindset.
Cooper turned 30 earlier this month, so this might be his last chance to sign a lucrative long-term deal. It would be risky for him to play out the final year of his current contract without more financial security in place.
Cooper likely feels he is in a position of strength, too. He had a career-best 1,250 receiving yards with 5 touchdowns in 15 games last season. He had 1,160 receiving yards and a career-high 9 touchdowns in 17 games the year before. With no guaranteed money remaining on his current contract, it is hardly a surprise that Cooper wants the Browns to show more commitment to him.
