Buffalo, NY – May 1, 2025
The Buffalo Bills lost a key weapon, as wide receiver Amari Cooper signed a one-year, $10 million deal with the New Orleans Saints, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The five-time Pro Bowler, valued at $38 million by Spotrac, leaves Josh Allen’s offense reeling after Brandon Beane failed to secure his return.
Cooper, acquired midseason 2024, recorded 20 receptions for 297 yards and two touchdowns with the Bills. With James Cook’s $15 million contract dispute unresolved, Beane’s $5.3 million cap constrained efforts to retain Cooper. The Saints, with $29.5 million in cap space, pounced to pair him with Chris Olave.
“Cooper’s a precision craftsman,” Saints coach Dennis Allen told The Times-Picayune. “He’ll elevate our attack.”
Cooper, 30, brings 10,974 career yards and elite route-running to New Orleans, where Kellen Moore’s offense demands a reliable WR2. Outshining Brandin Cooks, he’ll support Jake Haener, pushing the Saints’ NFC South hopes. His 2024 dip in speed didn’t deter New Orleans, who outbid Buffalo’s limited offer.
“It’s a brutal blow,” said NFL Network’s Bucky Brooks. “Cooper could’ve been Allen’s clutch target.”
The Bills, with only Kaden Prather drafted in Round 7, rely on Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman, and Elijah Moore ($5 million signing). Cooper’s exit, after Mack Hollins joined New England, leaves Allen’s 4,306-yard attack thin. Beane may target cheaper veterans, but Cook’s uncertain future clouds Buffalo’s 2025 Super Bowl bid.
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