NFL player announces retirement one week after signing with the Raiders

In a surprising twist, veteran receiver Amari Cooper announced his retirement from the gridiron just nine days after signing with the Las Vegas Raiders, just three days before the start of the 2025 season. The announcement was confirmed by Raiders offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, who revealed that Cooper called him, along with head coach Pete Carroll, to communicate his decision.

What motivated this decision?

Despite calling his return to the Raiders a "coming home moment" and stating that he still had "some energy left," Cooper confessed that his motivation to continue was no longer there.

The veteran WR finished his career with 711 receptions, over 10,000 yards (around 10,033), and 64 touchdowns over a 10-season career, which included seven seasons with over 1,000 yards and five Pro Bowl selections, most recently in 2023.

Immediate consequences for the Raiders

His departure leaves the team with a very limited receiving corps, consisting of Tre Tucker, Dont'e Thornton Jr., Jack Bech, and star Jakobi Meyers, whose future with the team is uncertain due to a trade request.

Cooper had signed a one-year contract worth approximately $3.5 million.

Summary
Key Points | Details
Player | Amari Cooper, WR, 31
Team | Las Vegas Raiders
Decision | Retires 9 days after signing with the team
Reason | Lack of motivation to continue playing
Career by the numbers | 10 seasons · 711 receptions · 10,033 yards · 64 TDs · 5 Pro Bowls
Impact on the team | Depleted receiver room, need to restructure before kickoff