Eagles CB Darius Slay believes Browns WR Amari Cooper is 'most underappreciated receiver in the league'

If Amari Cooper believes an endorsement will help him secure the contract extension he’s aiming for, he received one from a perennial Pro Bowl cornerback.

Philadelphia Eagles corner Darius Slay lauded the Cleveland Browns veteran as the most unsung wide receiver in the NFL.

“I really be thinking he’s the most underappreciated receiver in the league,” Slay said on the Green Light with Chris Long podcast.

When Long initially asked Slay, a six-time Pro Bowler with 11 seasons under his belt with the Detroit Lions and Eagles, about who he thought was the most underrated receiver in the league, he didn’t exactly label Cooper as such. However, Slay was adamant in expressing that he believes Cooper doesn’t receive the recognition he deserves for his ten seasons in the league, nor does he feel that the Browns treat Cooper as they should.

Slay stated, “I can see now that Cleveland doesn’t want to pay him, but they really need to give that man his money.”

As he enters the final season of his five-year, $100 million contract, Cooper has skipped mandatory minicamp as he seeks a new deal.

Slay enumerated numerous reasons why the seven-time 1000-yard receiver deserves another salary increase.

“Amari Cooper, who has consistently achieved a thousand-yard reception and performed well, is still not receiving the credit he deserves,” Slay commented, pondering over Long’s question.

Cooper, a 30-year-old five-time Pro Bowler, has achieved all-star honors with the Raiders, Dallas Cowboys, and Browns. He is also coming off what could arguably be considered his best season yet.

In 2023, Cooper tallied a career-high 1,250 yards and 17.4 yards per reception, hauling in 72 catches in total and five touchdowns. His production in two years in Cleveland has been a constant despite a revolving door under center as quarterback Deshaun Watson has struggled to stay on the field due to a suspension and injuries. Nevertheless, Cooper has produced.

Long pointed out Cooper’s monster Week 16 showing last season against the Houston Texans in which he gobbled up 265 yards off 11 catches with a pair of touchdowns, having formed an instant connection with Joe Flacco.

“Out there, they were just playing catch,” said Long.

“And getting groovy,” Slay said.

Regardless of whether Cooper receives the recognition or attention he deserves, he is definitely earning respect from his peers.

“Slay opined, “He is truly the one being underestimated. He has been a consistent performer ever since he joined the league, and has been dominating. He is the only receiver I genuinely believe possesses a true route tree and can run all routes. While many players have special abilities, like speed or towering height, enabling them to outperform others, Amari Cooper stands out. He is exceptional right off the line of scrimmage, post-catch, and in his ability to attack the ball.”

Regardless of whether Cooper is receiving the financial support he deserves from the Browns, he certainly has a strong endorsement from one of the game’s top defenders to bolster his resume.