NFL: 15 Rookies who are future Pro Bowlers
By Andrew Garda
Amari Cooper, WR, Oakland Raiders
Amari Cooper is already listed as the number one receiver on the Oakland Raiders depth charts at Ourlads.com . He’s ahead of free agent Michael Crabtree (who ironically the Raiders passed on when he came into the league). Cooper really won’t lack for targets, not with his main competition being guys like Kenbrell Thompkins, Jeremy Gallon and Rod Streater.
It could take Cooper some time to adjust to the pro game, no matter how talented he is. That’s par for the course with most young receivers and he’s going to see players like Chris Harris, Sean Smith, Darrelle Revis, Brandon Flowers, Aqib Talib and other good corners who will challenge him in ways he didn’t see in college.
Cooper’s development also depends on how second-year quarterback in Derek Carr improves this year. Carr had a pretty solid 2014. While he made some mistakes in his rookie year, he looks like the real deal as a starter and that’s huge for Cooper.
We know Carr will seek Cooper out during the receiver’s rookie year and the sooner the two get on the same page, the better for Cooper and his Pro Bowl chances. Still, despite his obvious talent and a decent quarterback, the journey to the All-Star game is likely one that can take a season or two. Unless Crabtree (or someone else) can step up, Cooper will see a lot of attention and that will add to the struggles many receivers have early in their careers.
Om a talent standpoint, Cooper has the good to be named to the Pro Bowl. In reality – and from a situational standpoint – it may be a few years before we see him there.
Next: Kevin White, WR, Chicago Bears