Since joining Dallas, Amari Cooper has established himself as one of the top wideouts in the NFL. His game is well-rounded, but what really sets him apart from the plethora of talented wide receivers in the league are Cooper’s route running, footwork and release . Both of These skills are enhanced by Cooper’s attention to detail and commitment to preparation each and every week.
The former Alabama standout revealed that he enjoys the game of chess. Cooper’s on-field game shows exactly how his forward thinking on the chess board can apply to the gridiron as well. Cooper was the most recent player featured on NFL.com’s film session series. The episode, “Amari Cooper on the Art of the Release & Route Running,” features Cooper sitting down with Brian Baldinger and Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner to discuss the intricacies of playing the receiver position.
When asked by Warner, “What’s your greatest strength? What do you believe separates you from other great players?” Cooper responded, “Just being able to think three steps ahead of the guy. So as a receiver, my game is to try to make my route look like a different route than I’m actually running.”
As Cooper enjoys running through his teammates in chess, thinking ahead should be no surprise.
Multiple times Cooper emphasized setting up the defenders, through either crisp route running, or by knowledge of how the cornerback wants to play each rep. Cooper is arguably the best wide receiver in the league as far as “double move” routes go, and it’s easy to see why after taking a deeper look at his complex style of play.
It’s clear Cooper is a true student of the game, and the 27-year old should continue to grow a he spends another year with Dak Prescott, Kellen Moore, and the rest of the Cowboys talented offense.
This NFL film session is an interesting and easy way to learn more about how one of the best receivers in the game today uses their physical and mental tools to get open as often as almost anyone.
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