Steelers May Be Hesitant To Add This Aging Receiver: 'He's Washed'

There hasn’t been a dull moment for the Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason, as they have consistently made headlines with big moves. The roster looks very different heading into the upcoming season versus how it did last year, but with training camp quickly approaching, there are still lingering questions. Despite all the big additions, several key voids remain, leaving fans wondering how, or if, the Steelers plan to address those positions before the regular season begins.

One of the most discussed roster gaps right now is at the wide receiver position. Earlier this offseason, the Steelers brought in powerhouse veteran DK Metcalf, but after George Pickens' departure, the team is still searching for another reliable receiver. Recently, Steelers insider Brian Batko hosted a fan chat session, giving fans the chance to ask anything related to the team. When asked about the possibility of the Steelers targeting veteran Amari Cooper to help fill that gap, Batko had a surprising response.

"People who watched him [Cooper] a lot in Buffalo [Bills] last year think he's washed," Batko wrote. "He's hit the dreaded post-30 age, too. Had drop issues, too, and that's not what you want out of a guy who's probably lost a step athletically as well."

Cooper is a seasoned veteran wide receiver and current free agent who has spent the past few seasons playing for multiple teams, including a division rival, the Cleveland Browns. Despite moving around, Cooper has remained known for his precise route running, dependable hands, and ability to make key plays in important moments. In addition to his on-field skills, Cooper brings a respected leadership presence that positively impacts the locker room. 

Cooper has been linked to the Steelers for a while, due to both his on-field talent and the potential for a strong fit within the team’s current roster. His experience and leadership in the locker room could be very valuable, especially given that one of the rumored reasons behind Pickens’ departure was related to maturity and locker room dynamics. However, one concern the Steelers would have to consider is his injury history, something the organization is all too familiar with when evaluating veteran additions.

Cooper has had a successful career, but in recent years, he’s dealt with several injuries that have sometimes limited his availability. In 2024, he missed two games and was questionable for others because of a wrist sprain. In 2023, he played through the season but dealt with rib bruises, a concussion, and a heel injury that limited his practice time. He also has a history of groin, ankle, and hamstring issues, and even had wrist surgery one offseason. While Cooper has still shown durability, his injury history is something teams keep in mind when considering him.

On top of these injuries is the fact that, as Batko mentioned, Cooper is getting older. The combination of age and lingering injuries potentially affecting his athleticism is definitely a concern. However, if the Steelers were to sign Cooper, it would likely be on a short-term, low-cost deal, which could make the risk more manageable.

Cooper Could Align With Steelers' Offseason Strategy

The Steelers have made several major changes this offseason, leading many to view this as a rebuilding phase for the team. However, with Head Coach Mike Tomlin’s impressive record of never having a losing season as a head coach, it’s clear the Steelers won’t lay down and die. That’s what makes their offseason approach so interesting, as the Steelers seem to be combining experienced, proven veterans with young, promising rookies to try to remain competitive now while also building toward the future.

In fact, Steelers General Manager Omar Khan has received praise for his ability to stay unattached while building a strong and balanced roster. His approach has made the offseason both unpredictable and exciting, creating even more anticipation for the regular season. Whether the Steelers end up adding Cooper or another wide receiver remains unknown, but one thing is clear, the roster is coming together in a promising way.