Chiefs Could Target 5-Time Pro Bowl ‘Ring-Chaser’ WR as Rashee Rice Fill-In

The Kansas City Chiefs are bracing for a big absence in their wide receiver room after Rashee Rice pleaded guilty to two felony charges, paving the way for an expected suspension by the NFL.

While the Chiefs could have some internal candidates ready to step up and make up for Rice’s absence, the team could also choose to bring on a free agent to add more depth. While there are not a lot of options left on the open market, there is one proven pass-catcher still waiting for a team to come calling.

Chiefs Could Add ‘Ring-Chaser’

Nick Brinkerhoff of USA Today noted that the Chiefs took a similar strategy last season, adding a ring-chasing veteran receiver in DeAndre Hopkins. The player who fits the profile this offseason is Amari Cooper, who remains available after spending the second half of last season with the Buffalo Bills.

“At this point, [Cooper] profiles in a ring-chasing role similar to the one that DeAndre Hopkins held with the Kansas City Chiefs,” Brinkerhoff wrote. “He’s a veteran presence that can still produce and shouldn’t cost too much. Whether that’s for a team like the all-in Pittsburgh Steelers or a rebuilding squad with the chance for a deal at the trade deadline, Cooper should find himself a roster spot in 2025.”

Cooper had topped 1,000 yards in five of the six seasons heading into 2024, but saw a drop-off as he struggled with poor quarterback play on the Cleveland Browns and adjusting to his new role with the Bills after being traded mid-season. Cooper ended the season with 44 receptions for 547 yards and four touchdowns, the lowest output of his career.

Cooper could be a short-term addition for the Chiefs or even a candidate to take a veteran spot on the practice squad.

Worries About Amari Cooper’s Viability

Cooper’s sharp dropoff in production last season has led to questions about whether he can continue contributing at a high level in the NFL — or even a moderate one. Buffalo News insider Jay Skurski wrote in April that the lack of interest could be a troubling sign for the veteran wide receiver.

“The market for Cooper is speaking loudly,” Skurski wrote. “To this point, he has not even taken any reported visits to teams. If the Bills wanted to bring him back, they seemingly would have already done so – unless the sides were so far apart on money that it became clear no deal was going to happen.”

Skurski added that there are questions about whether the 31-year-old has enough to contribute in 2025.

“Cooper turns 31 in June and it’s fair to wonder exactly how much he’s got left,” Skurski wrote.

Brinkerhoff threw a bit of cold water on the speculation, noting that Cooper would still have enough left in the tank to serve as a contributing wide receiver. For the Chiefs, needing just a short-term boost to their depth, it could be enough.

“Father Time eventually comes for all, but it’s hard to imagine the receiver being zapped of his powers that quickly after totaling at least 1,100 yards in four of the five seasons prior to 2024,” Brinkerhoff wrote. “Cooper isn’t a WR1, but he’s certainly a capable complementary piece that can add depth and production to any room he joins.”