Chiefs should target five-time Pro Bowl WR following Rashee Rice's injury

On a Tuesday episode of The Athletic's "Scoop City" podcast, NFL insider Dianna Russini said the Chiefs are mulling a move before the trade deadline on Nov. 5. She and co-host Chase Daniel, a former NFL QB, listed Cooper as a potential target. 

In August, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reported the Browns almost traded Cooper to the San Francisco 49ers, but WR Brandon Aiyuk vetoed the deal. Perhaps Cleveland would consider placing him on the block again after a disappointing 1-3 start. 

Cooper — entering the final year of a five-year, $100M deal — is an affordable trade candidate for the Chiefs. Spotrac co-founder Michael Ginnitti noted Cleveland converted all but $1.21M of his 2024 salary into signing bonus this offseason. Thus, K.C. would only absorb $941,111 in salary if it acquired him.

Cooper's numbers have dipped slightly this season. In four games, the 30-year-old has 16 receptions for 148 yards and two TD catches. Per Pro Football Focus, he's averaging a career-low 1.8 yards after the catch per reception.  

Of course, Cooper should produce better numbers with Chiefs starting quarterback Patrick Mahomes, a two-time MVP. Through four starts, Browns starting QB Deshaun Watson ranks last in the NFL in QBR (23.7) among 31 eligible passers.

Plus, Cooper could be worth the risk. Rice leads the team in receiving yards (288 on 24 receptions in four games). If he misses several weeks, the Chiefs passing attack may stall.

Through the first four weeks of the season, Kansas City tight end Travis Kelce has averaged 39.5 receiving yards per game, the second-lowest mark of his career. Rookie WR Xavier Worthy, meanwhile, has nine receptions for 154 yards and two TD catches. WR Marquise "Hollywood' Brown (shoulder) was recently placed on injured reserve and is expected to miss the regular season.

The Chiefs are 4-0, but the thin receiving corps could hamper their Super Bowl hopes. Trading for Cooper may provide the insurance policy they clearly need.