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Amari Cooper: All About His Raiders Reunion and What It Means for Las Vegas
Amari Cooper is back in silver and black. The five-time Pro Bowl wide receiver has officially reunited with the Las Vegas Raiders, returning to the team where his NFL career began seven years ago. The move, announced this week, is part of head coach Pete Carroll’s effort to reshape the Raiders and bring veteran stability to a roster filled with young talent.
Cooper’s return has sparked excitement among fans and questions about how much the 31-year-old still has left to give. For Cooper, though, the message is clear—his time with the Raiders isn’t over yet.
Amari Cooper reacts to his Raiders comeback
Not long after news of his signing broke, Cooper shared a highlight video of his career with the Raiders on Instagram. His caption was just two words: “Unfinished bidness.” It was short, bold, and a reminder that he believes he still has more to accomplish with the team that drafted him.
How Amari Cooper’s career started with the Raiders
Cooper entered the league in 2015 as the Raiders’ fourth overall pick. Back then, the team was still based in Oakland, and Cooper wasted no time showing why he was a top draft choice. Over four seasons, he recorded more than 3,000 yards and 19 touchdowns, quickly becoming one of quarterback Derek Carr’s go-to weapons.
In 2018, the Raiders traded Cooper to the Dallas Cowboys, where he continued to make Pro Bowls and cement his reputation as one of the NFL’s best route runners. Later stops in Cleveland and Buffalo followed, but his production dipped last season, when he totaled just 547 yards and four touchdowns across 14 games.
Why the Raiders brought Cooper back now
Amari Cooper.
Source: Oakland Raiders.
The Raiders are in the middle of a rebuild after a disappointing season. Pete Carroll, who took over as head coach, has made it clear he wants to blend experience with youth. Along with Cooper, the team added veterans like Jamal Adams and Devin White while also giving rookies Dont’e Thornton Jr. and Jack Bech major roles.
With Geno Smith—another Carroll connection—at quarterback, Cooper gives the Raiders a reliable veteran presence. He may not be in his prime anymore, but his sharp route running and experience make him a steady option for an offense that struggled with consistency.
How Cooper fits into the Raiders’ receiver room
Cooper joins a crowded group of receivers that includes Jakobi Meyers, who recently requested a trade, along with younger names like Thornton, Bech, and Tre Tucker. If Meyers stays, Cooper will serve as a complementary piece and a mentor to the younger players. If Meyers leaves, Cooper’s role could expand quickly.
Either way, his presence forces defenses to respect him, which could create more opportunities for Smith’s other targets, especially standout tight end Brock Bowers.
Can Amari Cooper still make an impact
Cooper’s last season raised doubts about his ability to produce at a high level, but history shows that when healthy, he can still be dangerous. He has over 9,000 receiving yards and more than 50 career touchdowns, numbers that speak for themselves.
Whether he can turn back the clock in Las Vegas depends on his chemistry with Smith and Carroll’s game plan. Even if he isn’t the same explosive playmaker he was early in his career, his leadership and knowledge of the game could be just as valuable to the Raiders’ offense.
What this reunion means for the Raiders
For the Raiders, Cooper’s return represents more than a roster move—it’s a statement of intent. Pete Carroll is putting his stamp on the team by combining veteran leadership with young talent, and Cooper fits perfectly into that vision.
For Cooper, the reunion is about proving that he still has something to offer the franchise where it all began. His “Unfinished bidness” message shows he’s motivated, and that’s exactly what the Raiders need as they try to reset and move forward.
FAQs
Why did Amari Cooper return to the Raiders? He signed a one-year deal as part of Pete Carroll’s plan to add experienced veterans to help guide a young roster.
What was Amari Cooper’s reaction to the signing? He posted a highlight reel with the caption “Unfinished bidness,” signalling he has more to achieve with the Raiders.
How old is Amari Cooper now? He is 31 years old.
What role will Amari Cooper play for the Raiders? He’s expected to provide leadership, experience, and reliable production while mentoring younger receivers.
When did Amari Cooper start his career with the Raiders? He was drafted by the Raiders in 2015 as the fourth overall pick.
How many Pro Bowls has Amari Cooper made? He has been selected to the Pro Bowl five times.
