The Dallas Cowboys have been facing scrutiny over their wide receiver corps, and recent comments from Hall of Famer Troy Aikman have intensified the spotlight on their struggles. Aikman criticized the team’s pass-catchers for their “lazy” route running, stating they aren’t doing enough to support quarterback Dak Prescott.
Calls for a reunion with Amari Cooper, who had been available for trade from the Cleveland Browns, echoed among fans. However, the Cowboys showed no interest, allowing Cooper to land with the Buffalo Bills in exchange for a third-round pick. Ironically, Cooper made an explosive debut in Week 7, reminding Dallas of what they lost.
In his first game with Buffalo, Cooper made an immediate impact, scoring a touchdown on a 12-yard pass from quarterback Josh Allen in the third quarter. He finished the game with four receptions for 66 yards and a touchdown. His presence also seemed to elevate rookie receiver Keon Coleman, who had a breakout performance with 125 receiving yards—his highest of the season so far.
The Cowboys have faced criticism since trading Cooper to the Browns in 2022 for a fifth-round pick. After his departure, Cooper became the first player in franchise history to record consecutive 1,000-yard seasons. The timing of his trade, following the Browns’ 1-5 start, has left many questioning Dallas’s decision-making.
As the Cowboys head into their bye week, they are hopeful of regaining offensive momentum. CeeDee Lamb has yet to record a 100-yard game this season, and while Jalen Tolbert has filled in as the primary WR2, he has not proven to be a consistent game-changer. The team will need to reassess its strategies if they want to turn their season around and avoid further regret over missed opportunities.
