Browns GM names player he wants to ‘retain as long as possible’

Browns normal supervisor Andrew Berry has constructed arguably probably the most full groups within the NFL over the previous couple of years, and whereas no roster stays the identical, he named one participant that he desires to maintain in Cleveland so long as potential.

“[Amari] Cooper’s a Professional Bowl-caliber receiver. He is performed rather well for us the previous two years,” Berry said through Keith Britton of 92.3 The Fan. “He is a powerful presence within the locker room. We love him. Gamers like that, you wish to just be sure you can retain so long as potential.”

Cooper has been nothing in need of productive since becoming a member of the Browns in 2022. Over the previous two years, the 29-year-old has posted 150 catches for two,410 yards and 14 touchdowns.

Nonetheless, Cooper is getting into the ultimate yr of the five-year deal he signed with the Cowboys in 2020, which places his future with the crew in query.

Cleveland additionally traded for and prolonged former Broncos extensive receiver Jerry Jeudy this offseason. That does not imply Cooper is on his approach out, however the Browns appear to be overlaying all their bases.

Berry could put his cash the place his mouth is, nevertheless. Cooper is at the moment carrying a cap hit of almost $24 million into the 2024 season and signing him to a brand new deal may decrease that cap hit.

That might be a win-win state of affairs for Cleveland as it will acquire some extra wage cap house for this season whereas locking up Cooper earlier than he would hit the open market subsequent offseason.

Cooper could also be Berry’s greatest commerce thus far. The Browns solely needed to ship a fifth-round choose and swap sixth-round picks within the 2022 NFL Draft to amass the five-time Professional Bowler from Dallas.

So, do not be shocked if Cooper indicators a contract extension with Cleveland sooner quite than later. Berry is hoping Cooper and Jeudy will likely be a harmful extensive receiver duo for a few years to return.