Most of this year’s top NFL free agents have already secured their new teams for the 2025 season. Notable signings include Aaron Rodgers joining the Pittsburgh Steelers, Sam Darnold with the Seattle Seahawks, and Stefon Diggs now on the New England Patriots.
However, the market for veterans isn’t completely depleted at this stage in summer. All 32 teams are monitoring the remaining pool of free agents, ready to pounce for emergencies or last-minute signings, especially notable wide receivers. The standout unsigned pass catchers are two former Pro Bowlers, Amari Cooper and Keenan Allen, who collectively have 11 Pro Bowl appearances. Cooper recently played with the Buffalo Bills after being traded mid-season from the Cleveland Browns. Allen was with the Chicago Bears, emerging as a favorite target for Caleb Williams toward the end of the last season.
Where could Allen and Cooper land next? Here are some plausible options for both players this summer.
Denver Broncos
The Broncos might surprise some by not having already signed either of these experienced wideouts. With a promising young quarterback in Bo Nix, they could greatly benefit from a reliable weapon on the outside. Tight end Evan Engram may be a new safety valve for Nix, while coach Sean Payton will likely want to rely on the run and defense. Nevertheless, adding a quality No. 2 behind Courtland Sutton would be wise.
Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders focused on offense this offseason, trading for Geno Smith and drafting Ashton Jeanty in the first round. They have a few standout weapons including second-year tight end Brock Purdy, but they could use veteran assistance at wide receiver. Cooper would be a familiar face who began his career with the Raiders and could reunite with quarterbacks coach Greg Olson.
Los Angeles Chargers
If we’re considering a possible reunion of Cooper with the Raiders, we must also discuss Allen’s potential return to the Chargers. His former teammate Mike Williams just signed back, and although the team picked up Tre Harris to complement the existing route-running talents of Ladd McConkey, bringing Allen back in a supporting role makes sense.
Pittsburgh Steelers
At this point, ignoring the Steelers in discussions about potential offensive signings would be a mistake. They just brought in Jonnu Smith primarily as a wideout for Rodgers and recently traded for DK Metcalf but their depth isn’t impressive following George Pickens transferring to the Cowboys. They could benefit greatly from two sharp route runners like Allen or Cooper to ensure that Metcalf retains his No. 1 status.
San Francisco 49ers
While the 49ers have been more focused on getting rid of big-name players rather than adding them, neither Allen nor Cooper would command a hefty price at this time. With young receivers like Brandon Aiyuk still recovering from injuries, bringing in a seasoned target like either would provide a safety net for quarterback Brock Purdy as he continues to grow.
