Julio Jones has emerged as one of the best receivers in the NFL after being drafted by the Falcons out of the University of Alabama four years ago. Oakland is hoping for the same level of success with another Alabama receiver, Amari Cooper, after selecting him fourth overall in this year’s draft. Cooper led the NCAA in receptions last year with an amazing total of 124 and he also added 16 touchdowns and 1,727 yards. The Raiders have not had a player with the potential of Cooper in many years. Can Amari be this year’s superstar rookie receiver?
Fantasy Upside
In many ways, the best way to measure a player is how well they perform in big games. Although Alabama lost to Ohio State in the college football playoffs, Cooper scored two touchdowns against the Buckeyes. And in the 2014 Iron Bowl, Cooper burned Alabama’s hated rival, Auburn, for 224 yards and three scores. Cooper has already developed chemistry with Oakland’s second-year quarterback, Derek Carr, who played well as a rookie. In Oakland’s third preseason game, Cooper caught four passes for 62 yards against a stout Arizona Cardinals defense. He also had a 40-yard reception against Minnesota.
Fantasy Downside
You would not know it from the lofty reception total he compiled in Tuscaloosa, but Cooper did have issues with drops at times during his college career. While it appears the 21-year-old is on the fast track to being a star, there are no guarantees with rookies, especially if Carr shows any sign of regression. Michael Crabtree, signed to start opposite Cooper, could see plenty of targets if he can regain the form he once displayed in San Francisco.
Bottom Line
Much like Sponge Bob Square Pants and Patrick Star, Cooper and Carr are going to be best buddies. While it remains to be seen if Cooper will be this year’s version of Odell Beckham, he will be an immediate starter with upside for fantasy teams as a WR2/WR3.