Former Alabama wide receiver Amari Cooper has had a busy offseason. He was selected in the first round (fourth overall pick) of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders.
Cooper impressed Oakland’s coaching staff and teammates with his hands, speed and athleticism during mini-camp and OTAs. He returned to Tuscaloosa, Ala., on Thursday, July 2 to open a Nike Factory Store at Midtown Village. Cooper and Alabama Congresswoman Terri Sewell cut the ceremonial ribbon.
Electronic Arts, an American developer, marketer, publisher and distributor of video games, has had the Madden NFL series since 2000. Madden 15 is the latest issue, however, EA Sports has released the overall ratings of the top 10 rookies in Madden 16.
Cooper checks in the top 10 with an overall rating of 82, which is best among rookies.
He brings in a 92 in speed, 94 agility and 87 in catches. Cooper stands second in catches behind, former West Virginia player and current Chicago Bears wide receiver Kevin White (88).
Cooper will be Derek Carr’s primary target in 2015. He is a savvy route runner that burn can defensive backs over the top, or hurt them with quick receptions in space.
He totaled 1,727 receiving yards with 16 touchdowns on 124 catches last season at Alabama. Cooper ended his career with 228 receptions for 3,463 yards and 31 touchdowns.
Stephen M. Smith is a staff writer and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine, Pick Six Previews and SB Nation. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @ESPN_Future.
