Ex-Bills Comeback with Buffalo in New Role After Retirement from Raiders

Buffalo, NY — September 6, 2025

Just two days after stunning the league with a retirement announcement, wide receiver Amari Cooper may not be finished with football after all. The five-time Pro Bowler, who briefly rejoined the Raiders before walking away, is now exploring a comeback with the Buffalo Bills — this time in a role that could blend playing and mentoring.

On September 4, Cooper, 31, informed the Raiders that he no longer felt the desire to play, just nine days after signing a one-year, $3.5 million deal. Reports pointed to difficulty ramping up during training as the key factor. But sources now describe his retirement as “a moment of reflection, not a final decision.”

“I’ve had time to think, and Buffalo feels like home,” Cooper reportedly told a confidant. “I want to help this team win a Super Bowl, whether it’s catching passes or guiding the next generation.”

Cooper joined the Bills midseason in 2024 via trade from Cleveland. Though limited to eight games, he posted 20 catches, 297 yards, and two touchdowns, while earning praise from Josh Allen for his professionalism. His highlight came in Week 13 against the 49ers, when he pulled off a lateral to Allen for a touchdown — a reminder of his instincts and creativity.

“Amari’s a true pro,” Allen said at the time. “He came in, learned the playbook fast, and made plays when we needed him.”

Buffalo is firmly in “win-now” mode after a 13–4 campaign and an AFC Championship loss to Kansas City. Their receiving corps — Joshua Palmer, Elijah Moore, Keon Coleman, Curtis Samuel, and Khalil Shakir — is deep, but Cooper’s veteran savvy could bring balance.

Early discussions suggest Cooper is open to a reduced snap count while mentoring younger teammates, or even stepping into an assistant coaching role under WR coach Adam Henry, his former mentor in Dallas.

There are hurdles. Cooper’s 2024 season (547 yards in 14 games with Cleveland and Buffalo) was his least productive, hampered by injuries and scheme changes. His recent retirement casts doubt on both physical readiness and long-term commitment.

Yet the résumé remains: 711 receptions, 10,033 yards, 64 touchdowns over 10 NFL seasons. Few receivers match his precise route-running, separation skills, and big-game experience.

The Bills have not confirmed interest, but conversations are ongoing. A potential contract would likely be incentive-based, accounting for cap space and Cooper’s unique situation.

For Cooper, it’s about more than money. It’s about finishing the story in Buffalo — on the field, in the locker room, or both — as the Bills chase the Lombardi Trophy.