Amari Cooper is fresh off a historic 11-catch, 265 yard, two touchdown performance in Week 16 against the Houston Texans, and the Browns will be hoping he can continue to lead their offense at this rate throughout the remainder of the season. However, they will first be hoping that he can play in Week 17 against the New York Jets on Thursday Night Football, as a heel injury has made Cooper's status murky for this big game.
Via Tom Pelissero:
“Browns WR Amari Cooper (heel) is hopeful he can play tonight against the Jets, but his status remains up in the air, per sources. The short week is tough. Cooper knows his body well. They’ll get a better sense closer to kickoff.”
Cooper has had a solid season to this point for Cleveland (72 REC, 1250 YDS, 5 TD), and he has quickly developed a solid relationship with Joe Flacco at quarterback since he took over under center. Cooper hasn't missed a game this season, and while he will be hoping to build off of his outrageous performance in Week 16, his heel injury may prevent him from doing so.
If Cooper is unable to play, Elijah Moore would step up and fill the top wide receiver spot against the Jets, which may be a bit concerning given how strong New York's secondary is. Tight end David Njoku would also see an uptick in volume, as would Jerome Ford and Kareem Hunt at running back.
Everyone will be anxiously waiting to see how Cooper follows up his dominant outing against the Texans, but they may have to wait another week if he is ultimately unable to suit up. The Browns are remaining hopeful Cooper can play, but his status is going to be worth keeping an eye on in the hours ahead of their Week 17 contest.
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