While Cooper’s ($6,100) numbers have been poor thus far, this Sunday’s matchup with the Giants is a potential spot for the receiver to come alive. New York’s defense has struggled at defending the pass this season, allowing the fourth most yards per pass in the NFL. The Giants’ coverage grade ranks 20th on PFF, and Cooper’s usage been strong for this pass-heavy Brown’s offense that ranks fourth in pass rate this season.
Through the first two weeks of the season, the wideout leads the Browns with a 23.3% target share—including two redzone targets —while leading the league in routes run. In addition to the usage in scoring territory, Cooper has been utilized as deep threat, with three targets over 20 yards. The veteran ranks fifth in the NFL in air yards. Soon, Cooper is going to erupt with a vintage performance and this matchup with the Giants is a great spot for him to get back on track.
Despite their offensive struggles, the Browns are a -118 favorite to score over 22.5 points this Sunday and they are 6.5-point favorites on the DraftKings Sportsbook, which is a testament to how strong of a matchup this is vs. New York.
To put the icing on the cake, the Browns will be at home this Sunday, which is terrific news for Cooper. Over the last three seasons, the receiver is amassing 18.5 FPTS per game at home, which is nearly eight FPTS better than his average on the road. Starting Cooper in season-long formats is the right move for Week 3 and for DFS.
He’s also a compelling GPP target, as Cooper’s ownership will likely be depressed given his quiet numbers so far.
Verdict: Start him.
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