Coming into this season, no other offensive rookie had as much hype from a fantasy football perspective as wide receiver Amari Cooper. As one of the most polished route runners in recent memory, Cooper was expected to match the impressive rookie totals of Buffalo Bills WR Sammy Watkins. Though some wondered during the preseason if the shaky play of quarterback Derek Carr would hold him back, the offensive duo has far exceeded our expectations thus far.
Cooper leads all rookie pass-catchers in receptions (62) and receiving yards (920) and is second in touchdowns (4). But that doesn't mean there aren't areas of his game that could use improvement.
"Amari Cooper has shown flashes of his upside during his rookie season, but he's also shown that there is plenty of room for improvement," ESPN Fantasy Football Insider Mike Clay wrote. "Cooper's 12 drops ties him with Mike Evans for most in the league."
Cooper will need to become more sure-handed in order to truly breakout as a No. 1 wide receiver. Fortunately, things are trending upward for him.
"Although problematic for Oakland's sake, the drops haven't slowed Cooper's standing as a solid fantasy option," Clay continued. "He sits 16th among wide receivers in fantasy points, and his usage near the goal line has increased over the past month. Through Week 8, Cooper had been targeted only once when within 8 yards of the goal line. Since that point, he's seen five in that zone, four of which have come in the end zone. The rookie is a fringe WR2 and a must-fade against Denver's exceptional defense this week."
Though Cooper has been more active near the end zone lately, owners may want to temper their expectations just a bit this week. The Broncos defense ranks first in receiving yards per game (216.8) and receiving touchdowns (11) and fifth in total receptions (249).
