Terry McLaurin, the Washington Commanders’ surefire WR1 option, had the best season of his career in 2024 catching passes from rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, setting a franchise single-season record with 13 touchdowns and earning NFL All-Pro honors for the first time in his career.
Beyond McLaurin, it’s been a by-committee approach to WR2, with veteran tight end Zach Ertz taking on the most of the workload. Even with that configuration, the Commanders went 12-5 and advanced to the playoffs for the first time since 2020.
Moving forward, the Commanders may not want to leave too much to chance with their passing game.
With over $100 million in salary cap room, the temptation will be to make huge moves in free agency for a high-profile wide receiver like Tee Higgins; however, the Commanders would be better off pursuing a player like Buffalo Bills wide out Amari Cooper.
Cooper, who will be 31 in June, is in the final season of a 5-year, $100 million contract deal he signed with the Dallas Cowboys in March 2020, and Spotrac estimates his market value as a 2-year, $28.4 million contract.
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While it might seem like a stretch for a player now on his third team in four seasons, Cooper’s impressive track record — including three 1,000-yard receiving seasons in the last four years — could make him a target for the Commanders. The team may look to secure him early with a one-year offer in the range of $10 million to $15 million.
Cooper Could Be a Top Free-Agent Target
Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox ranks Cooper as the No. 11 free agent in 2025, despite his performance dipping during a season split between the Cleveland Browns and Buffalo Bills following a midseason trade.
“Statistically, Cooper’s numbers this year were underwhelming,” Knox explained. “However, he dealt with poor quarterback play in Cleveland and had to quickly adapt to Buffalo’s offense. It’s worth noting that Joe Brady’s system doesn’t prioritize feeding one receiver, so expecting the kind of production we saw from Stefon Diggs last year wasn’t realistic. Still, Cooper had 1,250 receiving yards in 2023 and continues to showcase his sharp route-running, reliable hands, and ability to make big plays.”
Seeking Playoff Success
A potential draw for Cooper to join the Commanders could be the chance to play alongside young star quarterback Daniels — an enticing factor for many free agents. Additionally, Cooper might be eager to overcome his limited playoff success.
Since being drafted by the Las Vegas Raiders with the fourth overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft out of Alabama, Cooper has earned five Pro Bowl selections but has appeared in only five playoff games. None of the teams he’s played for have advanced to a conference championship.
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