The legal tampering period is nearly a week old, and the wide receiver market has been surprisingly sluggish. Despite a class filled with talented veterans, players like DeAndre Hopkins and Mike Williams have settled for modest one-year deals, while big names like Keenan Allen remain unsigned. However, the landscape could shift following Cooper Kupp’s blockbuster three-year, $45 million deal with the Seattle Seahawks. Released by the Los Angeles Rams earlier in the week, Kupp, though not the dominant force he once was, remains a reliable target and his contract likely sets the tone for the remaining free-agent receivers. Veterans like Keenan Allen, Stefon Diggs, and Amari Cooper, while in the latter stages of their careers, still have plenty to offer and should find new homes in the coming days.
### Why the Free Agent Wide Receiver Market Could Heat Up After Cooper Kupp’s Deal
**Stefon Diggs – Dallas Cowboys**
The Dallas Cowboys made a push for Cooper Kupp but were outbid by the Seahawks. Now, their attention turns to Stefon Diggs, the next top free-agent receiver available. Coming off a season-ending knee injury, Diggs will need to pass a physical, but if healthy, he could be the ideal WR2 opposite CeeDee Lamb. Dak Prescott thrives with two reliable targets, and a Lamb-Diggs duo could be the Cowboys’ best since Lamb paired with Amari Cooper.
**Keenan Allen – Los Angeles Chargers**
The Chargers have already reunited with Mike Williams, but adding Keenan Allen could further bolster their receiving corps. After a solid season with the Chicago Bears, Allen’s route-running prowess would be a welcome addition for Justin Herbert. While second-round pick Ladd McConkey represents the future, Allen’s consistency could provide a much-needed boost after Williams’ struggles and Quentin Johnston’s inability to secure a starting role.
**Amari Cooper – New England Patriots**
Amari Cooper is coming off a disappointing 2024 season, but his 1,200-yard campaign the year prior suggests he still has something left in the tank. A wrist injury may have hampered his performance, making him a potential bargain for the Patriots. With Drake Maye in need of a reliable target and New England sitting on ample cap space, Cooper could be a low-risk, high-reward signing for a team in desperate need of offensive firepower.
**Tyler Lockett – New Orleans Saints**
The Saints are delaying a rebuild and giving Derek Carr another shot under new head coach Kellen Moore. With Chris Olave’s injury history raising concerns, adding a veteran like Tyler Lockett could provide stability. While Lockett is no longer a WR1, his experience and ability to thrive in the slot make him a solid fit for a Saints offense in need of depth.
**Diontae Johnson – Kansas City Chiefs**
Diontae Johnson’s stock has plummeted after a tumultuous 2024 season that saw him bounce between multiple teams. Despite his off-field issues, Johnson has shown he can still produce when motivated. The Chiefs, known for managing strong personalities, could take a chance on him as a low-cost option, especially with uncertainty surrounding Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy.
As the free-agent market begins to heat up, these veteran receivers could provide immediate impact for teams looking to bolster their offenses for the 2025 season.
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