Amari Cooper only adds to Cowboys trade regret in Week 2

It took Amari Cooper less than one quarter in Week 2 to catch a touchdown from a backup quarterback — it’s a shame it wasn’t from Cowboys QB Cooper Rush.

Dallas wide receivers struggled to get much separation in Week 1 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Even before the Dak Prescott injury — which otherwise doomed their passing game — the likes of CeeDee Lamb and Co. didn’t make much of an impact.

With Cooper Rush taking over this week, Lamb must prove he can be a true No. 1 receiver, and fast. Meanwhile, Dallas’ former top wideout scored an early touchdown against the New York Jets, making his own backup quarterback in Jacoby Brissett feel quite comfortable.

Cowboys could use Amari Cooper right about now

It’s obvious revisionist history, but Dallas could use Amari Cooper right about now. The Cowboys lack the wide receiver depth to get consistent production at the position, especially with Michael Gallup out for the time being.

Dallas didn’t receive the compensation they expected for Cooper. A fifth-round pick for a four-time Pro Bowler still under 30 years old seems subpar, but Cooper’s hefty contract made his future in Dallas untenable. The Browns gladly welcomed him after losing Jarvis Landry, and he’s already paying dividends.

It doesn’t help that just this week, the Eagles dealt former first-round draft bust Jalen Reagor to the Vikings for a fourth-round pick and a seventh-round pick. How did Philly receive that sort of compensation for a player who isn’t remotely as proven as Cooper? It can’t be as simple as age.

Dallas gave up on Cooper too early. Yes, his contract worth is less than ideal at $20 million per year, but difficult times are why teams employ veterans like Cooper. Even a year removed from an off season, Cooper is as valuable as ever.