Oct 15, 2023; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns wide receiver Amari Cooper (2) runs with the ball after a catch as San Francisco 49ers cornerback Deommodore Lenoir (2) defends during the second half at Cleveland Browns Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

Expert urges 49ers to unleash 5-time Pro Bowler

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics | By Nathan Yasis | Last updated May 27, 2025 9:30 AM ET

The San Francisco 49ers have been busy this offseason, yet their roster work might still continue. Following key contract extensions for Brock Purdy , George Kittle, and Fred Warner, along with a reshuffle at wide receiver, many believe the team should add one more piece by signing free-agent receiver Amari Cooper.

The 49ers dealt Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders this offseason for multiple reasons. Samuel seemed dissatisfied with the team and his production had dipped, so offloading his contract was a smart move by management. Still, with Brandon Aiyuk expected to miss time due to last year’s ACL and MCL injuries, the 49ers will have to find another receiver to fill the gap.

Oct 10, 2024; Seattle, Washington, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (11) catches the ball during warmups before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

Moe Moton from Bleacher Report predicts the 49ers will sign Amari Cooper, who most recently played for the Buffalo Bills.

“Cooper battled injuries throughout the 2024 season, which limited his production. But if he’s healthy, the 30-year-old would be a quality pickup. As Christian McCaffrey ages, Purdy must take on more of the offensive workload with his arm. So, San Francisco should load up on able-bodied and available receivers,” Moton wrote in his article.

Amari Cooper boosting the 49ers

The 30-year-old, a five-time Pro Bowler, struggled last season while splitting time with the Cleveland Browns and Bills, managing just 44 receptions for 547 yards and four touchdowns over 14 games. Even with the decline in production, he remains one of the NFL’s most skilled route runners and could bring a much-needed boost to the 49ers’ wide receiver group, which faces considerable doubts.

Signing Cooper makes sense, especially with his likely affordable price tag. The 49ers might take a gamble on him, hoping he delivers. They could also move forward without Aiyuk, as reports indicate the team is actively pursuing trade opportunities for him.

San Francisco, holding the third-largest available cap space in the NFL according to OverTheCap.com, has the financial room to pursue a low-risk signing like Cooper. A one-year contract would provide a short-term fix with limited risk, especially if Cooper serves as a complement to Jennings and backup support for Aiyuk.

Cooper’s experience and football intelligence could greatly benefit a young receiving corps, especially since he wouldn’t be expected to shoulder the main workload, helping him maintain health and effectiveness. As Christian McCaffrey ages and more offensive responsibility shifts to Purdy, strengthening the receiving group becomes increasingly important.

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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