Is Amari Cooper playing tonight vs. Ravens? Exploring the Bills WR’s status for divisional round

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Amari Cooper's availability carries significant weight as his team prepares to face the Baltimore Ravens in the final NFL divisional round matchup. The critical playoff battle kicks off at 6:30 p.m. ET on Sunday at Highmark Stadium.

Cooper appeared on the injury report with a back issue this week. However, his full participation in practice sessions points to a positive outlook for Sunday's showdown. The Bills' medical staff has not indicated potential setbacks.

The receiver's presence could prove vital against Baltimore's defensive scheme. The Ravens have shown vulnerability through the air despite their stellar run defense, allowing 27 passing touchdowns this season. Wide receivers accounted for 18 of those scores.

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The matchup offers an opportunity for Amari Cooper to build on his modest Buffalo tenure. Since joining the Bills midseason from Cleveland, he's recorded just two receiving touchdowns. His season statistics tell a story of adaptation: 44 catches for 547 yards and four total touchdowns across 14 games split between two teams.

The Bills' strategic approach may lean heavily on their passing attack. Baltimore's run defense has proven nearly impenetrable, surrendering just 80.1 rushing yards per game during regular season play. Only the Giants' Saquon Barkley managed to break the 100-yard barrier against them.

Amari Cooper's playoff redemption path

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This prime-time playoff stage offers Amari Cooper a chance to silence doubters. The five-time Pro Bowler's current numbers stand in stark contrast to his 2022 campaign. He amassed 77 catches for 1,250 yards and five touchdowns with Cleveland.

Cooper's matchup against Baltimore's man-heavy defense could prove favorable. The Ravens showed susceptibility to outside receivers last week, giving up touchdowns to Steelers' George Pickens and Van Jefferson.

His veteran savvy might prove invaluable as Buffalo's ground game faces challenges. In their September meeting, the Bills managed just 81 yards on 23 rushing attempts against Baltimore's formidable front.

The implications extend beyond this playoff run. At age 30, Cooper's performance could influence his free-agency prospects. NFL insiders, including Brian Hines of Pats Pulpit, have linked him to potential suitors like the New England Patriots.

Amari Cooper's track record speaks to his capability: seven 1,000-yard seasons across stints with Oakland, Dallas and Cleveland. A strong showing against Baltimore could remind the league why he earned All-Pro recognition earlier in his career.

The stakes couldn't be higher: A trip to the AFC championship game hangs in the balance.