Washington Redskins: Making the case for Amari Cooper

The 2015 NFL draft is just eight days away, and the Washington Redskins currently possess the fifth overall selection.

Jan 9, 2015; Ashburn, VA, USA; Washington Redskins new general manager Scot McCloughan speaks at his introductory press conference at Redskins Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

The team has a slew of needs across their roster, meaning that general manager Scot McCloughan and Washington’s front office personnel can go in any direction that they see fit. Given the amount of pass-rushing talent available at the top of this year’s draft, it’s likely that the Redskins go in that direction. But it is no means a guarantee.

Outside of pass-rusher, in my opinion, the only position in this year’s draft worthy of being selected in the top five is wide receiver. There are only two wideouts skilled enough to go at number five; those players being West Virginia’s Kevin White and Alabama’s Amari Cooper.

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I’ve previously stated that I prefer White to Cooper, and that remains true. With that being said, Cooper is a tremendous football player and he brings a lot to the table in his own regard. The Alabama product is a player that is capable of delivering an instant impact. Cooper also offers a stronger track record, and more experience at the position.

Since becoming a full time starter for Alabama, Cooper has proven to be reliable and dangerous. In 2012, his first year as a starter, he competed in 14 games and managed to record 59 catches for 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns. His 2013 season wasn’t as strong, as he only competed in 12 games and failed to eclipse the thousand-yard mark. Cooper made sure that his down year was just that, a down year.

If anybody doubted Amari Cooper before the 2014 season, it is safe to say that those doubts have been put to rest. The 6-1, 210 pound wideout posted ridiculous numbers for Alabama last season, as he caught 124 passes for 1,727 yards and 16 touchdowns. His phenomenal season earned him the prestigious Fred Biletnikoff Award, an award given to the best receiver in the NCAA.

Winning the Biletnikoff often spells success for the recipient, as Larry Fitzgerald, Braylon Edwards, Michael Crabtree, Brandin Cooks, and Calvin Johnson have all won the award before turning pro. Fitzgerald and Johnson are undoubtedly the most accomplished players out of the bunch, and they have provided players like Cooper with a blueprint for success.

While he doesn’t possess the size of a Fitzgerald or Johnson, the way that he approaches the game isn’t much different. Cooper brings a reserved mentality with him, which, with the absurd amount of diva wideouts in the NFL, is a great attribute. Having a player that is talented, level headed, and willing to work is an outstanding asset for any team; and that’s exactly what the Redskins would be getting if they selected Cooper at No. 5.

He’s a player that won’t draw negative attention towards the team, while also producing at a high level. Perhaps the best part of Cooper’s game is his understanding of how to beat pass coverage. He has the ability to run all sorts of routes. His speed allows him to beat defenders deep, while his high football IQ allows him to settle down inside the soft spots of zone coverage.

Cooper’s football IQ and drive to better his game is what makes him such a good prospect. He’s constantly trying to improve, and the statistical jumps from 2013 to 2014 prove that his hard work is paying off. During a radio interview with 103.7-FM in Arkansas, Alabama’s offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin (via Michael Casagrande of AL.com) had this to say about Cooper’s work ethic, “Just always wanting to get better, always wanting to watch film. He’s one guy Friday night always after meetings, so it’s 10:00 at night and he’s there watching one last time, watching the DBs he’s going to go against.”

The pairing of talent and work ethic that Cooper possesses is rare, and the Washington Redskins would immediately benefit from his presence.

Next: Washington Redskins: Third round draft targets

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