Fantasy Football: Why you should hold a roster spot for Amari Cooper
Despite his inconsistent production, Amari Cooper remains an asset on fantasy football rosters before the October 30th trade deadline.
Over the last two years, Oakland Raiders wide receiver Amari Cooper has disappointed fantasy football managers, but it’s best to exercise a little patience with his long-term value for the 2018 season.
Thus far, Cooper has 22 receptions for 280 yards and a touchdown. In Week 6, he suffered a concussion early in the contest against the Seattle Seahawks, but there are two reasons to hold a roster spot for him.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Raiders have placed Cooper on the trade block, which gives hope for a strong finish to the season. Assuming the 24-year old recovers from a concussion, the team willing to trade for him would probably intend to utilize his offensive talents.
Cooper averaged at least 13.9 yards per reception in his first three campaigns, but he’s never scored more than seven touchdowns in a single season. However, new scenery could bring out the best in him. As a solid WR2-type at the least, the two-time Pro Bowler may serve as a midseason boost to your starting lineup.
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The NFL trade deadline is Oct. 30, and it’s possible the Raiders may not execute a deal, pending the offers or a change of heart. If that’s the case, fantasy owners should continue to hold him for a few weeks.
Following the NFL’s trade deadline, Cooper’s fantasy value would still list at a low, barring a big-time performance against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 8. Managers won’t look to acquire him in exchange for quality assets.
However, the Raiders may look to feature Cooper through the second half of the current term before attempting to move him in the offseason. The front office exercised his fifth-year option, keeping the third-year wideout on the books for the 2019 campaign. Oakland may attempt to feed him targets to increase his market value if head coach Jon Gruden decides to start from scratch next year.
Fantasy owners with loaded rosters can ignore the reasons to hold a spot for an inconsistent wide receiver. For those who have a few expendable assets on the bench, pick up Cooper if he’s on the waiver wire or buy low in a trade. A move to a new team or an increase in his usage could help you hit big through November, December and the playoffs.
Next. Fantasy Football 2018: Start or sit for Week 7. dark
Cooper hasn’t struggled with drops this season. If his quarterback targets him close to 10 times per game, he’s worth a roster spot.