The Los Angeles Chargers have one major, obvious need on offense since this offseason started: more reliable pass-catching options for rising star quarterback Justin Herbert.
While the roster has a strong foundation thanks to head coach Jim Harbaugh's vision, it's still a tier behind the elite teams in the NFL. When you look around the league and see floundering organizations like the New England Patriots committing significant resources to bring Stefon Diggs to town in support of Drake Maye, it makes you wonder when Los Angeles will give Herbert a suitable weapon to pair with Ladd McConkey.
Fortunately for the Chargers, there's one option who would be a perfect fit with Herbert's passing style. That he's still available suggests there isn't a huge market, so it's time for the front office to strike to make this a successful March.
👐 10 catches
— NFL (@NFL) June 17, 2019
🏃 217 yards
🙌 3 TDs@AmariCooper9 put on a career game vs. the Eagles 💯 pic.twitter.com/1J2M18uN0P
Chargers Must Sign WR Amari Cooper to Support Justin Herbert
While the above 10-catch, 217-yard, three-TD game was five years ago, it showcases the unique skillset that Cooper has. A five-time Pro Bowler entering his 11th campaign, the 30-year-old Cooper has a lot of good football left.
We saw as much when the Cleveland Browns brought Joe Flacco in back in 2023, with Cooper notching 374 yards and three TDs over two weeks to help clinch a playoff berth. Just like Flacco, Herbert can sling the ball down the field and fit it into tight windows that other signal callers can't. Unlike Flacco, Herbert tends to avoid disastrous plays and put passes where only his receiver can make a play.
With McConkey handling underneath routes and creating yards after the catch, Cooper would be free to stretch the defense and focus on what he does best. Harbaugh knows how to maximize talent, and Cooper has never played for a coach of his caliber.
A signing would benefit both sides. Cooper could shine and compete for a real playoff threat, while Herbert would get the missing piece he's always lacked.
With only a few days left this month before attention shifts to the 2025 NFL Draft, the Chargers need to make the call. Otherwise, they could be forced to specifically overdraft a receiver that might not make the same impact. Smart teams are keen on these types of moves and thanks to the new regime, Los Angeles is now a smart team.