It appears Jonathan Cooper is getting another chance in the NFL.
The Dallas Cowboys have agreed to terms with the free agent offensive lineman, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported, per a source involved. The team later confirmed the signing.
Cooper was drafted seventh overall by the Arizona Cardinals in the now abysmal top half of the 2013 draft and failed to produce before being sent to New England (along with a second-round pick) in 2016 for Chandler Jones. Cooper didn't last half a season in New England before they too gave up on the North Carolina product, releasing him on Oct. 8. Cleveland claimed Cooper off waivers, and even with their patchwork offensive line leaving quarterbacks as prime targets for hungry rushers, Cooper couldn't stick with the Browns, either, getting cut on Dec. 27.
Dallas is taking a flier on Cooper -- because why not -- to add depth to a unit that is widely considered the best in the league. The Cowboys lost La'el Collins early in the season to injury, but Ronald Leary stepped in and didn't miss a beat as the line opened gaping holes for rookie rusher Ezekiel Elliott.
Considering his high selection, one would hope Cooper remains a prospect that, with the right tutelage and teammates surrounding him, could develop into a serviceable lineman. For a team that isn't in need, it's a low-risk addition.
