Kansas City, MO – May 16, 2025
The Kansas City Chiefs bolstered their offense Wednesday, signing five-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Amari Cooper to a one-year, $6 million deal, sources confirmed. The move hedges against a potential NFL suspension of Rashee Rice as Organized Team Activities kick off.
Cooper, 30, brings 741 catches and 10,014 yards from his stints with the Raiders, Cowboys, Browns, and Bills. Despite a 2024 dip (547 yards), his 74.8 PFF grade and route-running prowess make him a savvy addition. “Amari’s a proven star,” coach Andy Reid said.
With Rice facing a possible multi-game ban due to off-field incidents, Cooper joins Xavier Worthy and JuJu Smith-Schuster to deepen a receiving corps that logged just 2,312 yards in 2024. His $6 million contract fits Kansas City’s $12.7 million cap, outshining Skyy Moore and Justyn Ross.
The Chiefs’ draft—Josh Simmons, Omarr Norman-Lott, Ashton Gillotte, Nohl Williams, Jalen Royals, Jeffrey Bassa, and Brashard Smith—added depth, but Cooper’s veteran presence could stabilize the offense. The signing aligns with Travis Kelce’s pay cut and Gabe Davis’ addition. GM Brett Veach called Cooper “a clutch weapon.”
Chiefs Kingdom roared with optimism. With two remaining picks, including No. 226, Kansas City eyes secondary depth. Cooper’s arrival, a strategic coup, fuels 2025 Super Bowl dreams, ensuring Patrick Mahomes has firepower amid Rice’s uncertain status.
