According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, the Browns standout, who set a franchise record last weekend with 265 yards, will not play in Cleveland’s Week 16 game against the Jets on “Thursday Night Football” due to a heel injury.
One of Joe Flacco’s favorite targets, Cooper appeared ready for a big secondary matchup against New York standout Sauce Gardner. Now that their top receiver is out of the picture, Kevin Stefanski’s team must secure a postseason spot without him, which is no easy feat considering the Jets’ powerful defense.
Cooper had a lot of possessions when he left Sunday’s game against Houston.
With 1,250 receiving yards this season, Cooper, 29, has already eclipsed his career high and is having the finest season of his career. Flacco and company may feel the effects of his absence greatly, particularly when facing New York’s formidable defense. As things stand, the Jets are giving up the seventh-worst completion percentage in the NFL to opposing quarterbacks. Things could get difficult for Flacco on Thursday night without Cooper, a vertical threat who can draw attention deep in the flat.
Anticipate more involvement from players like Cedric Tillman and Elijah Moore in the passing game while Cooper is out. Tight end David Njoku, who is currently Cleveland’s second-leading receiver with 75 receptions for 748 yards and six touchdowns this season, is probably going to be Flacco’s safety valve.
Marquise Goodwin
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