On Tuesday, the Browns kicked off their mandatory minicamp with a notable absence: wide receiver Amari Cooper. Reporters at the practice observed his absence and noted that he could face fines if it remains unexcused. Head coach Kevin Stefanski is expected to address the matter later in the day.
Cooper, who is entering the final year of his contract, was also absent from the team’s voluntary OTA practices. He has a base salary of $20 million for the 2024 season, and Browns General Manager Andrew Berry has previously expressed the team’s desire to retain players like him for as long as possible.
In March, the Browns made a big move by acquiring wide receiver Jerry Jeudy and signing him to a three-year extension. Cooper’s absence from minicamp may impact negotiations for a new deal of his own. The situation will be worth monitoring as the team navigates contract talks with their star receiver.