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Cleveland Browns wide receiver Amari Cooper revealed that he recently underwent surgery on a core muscle injury. He suffered the injury during the final month of the 2022 season. The good news is that he is in his eighth week of recovery and is on the right track to be ready for training camp.
Cooper was in attendance during the start of the Browns’ voluntary offseason workout program. However, he will likely do some light movement and exercises, given that he is still gaining strength.
The former Alabama standout had a bounce-back year last season. Cooper finished his first season in Cleveland with 1,160 yards and nine touchdowns. The Browns hope he can maintain or exceed this production in 2023, given that he will be the number-one receiver in their depth chart. It’s difficult to see where their passing attack will be going without him.
Building A Connection With Deshaun Watson Is Key For Amari Cooper
Cooper didn’t play much with Watson because of the quarterback’s 11-game suspension last season. When they finally played together, Watson and Cooper connected on only two touchdown passes in six games. Both scoring throws occurred in Week 17 against the Washington Commanders.
After being out for almost two seasons, Watson is still making his way back into game shape. Meanwhile, Cooper had to adjust to Watson’s game. Participating in the off-season workouts could help them build rapport and learn each other’s nuances.
Since timing is crucial in the NFL, they must go through the playbook repeatedly to be on the same page. But for now, Cooper’s condition limits what they can do. Succeeding OTAs and their training camp should help eliminate any disconnection between them.
Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed Cooper wouldn’t participate in on-field drills. He will likely be ready for action in the second phase of their offseason workouts, starting in two weeks.
With a quarterback who can deliver long throws downfield, Cooper must be ready to field those balls to keep their offense going. He will be an asset to their passing attack, especially when their division rivals in the AFC North all have their star wide receiver.
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