Amari Cooper’s Status Key as Bills Face Ravens in Divisional Round

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — The Buffalo Bills‘ playoff hopes hinge on the availability of star wide receiver Amari Cooper as they prepare to face the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC Divisional Round on Sunday, Jan. 19, at 6:30 p.m. ET at Highmark Stadium.

Cooper, who appeared on the injury report with a back issue this week, participated fully in practice sessions, signaling a likely return for the critical matchup. The Bills’ medical staff has not indicated any setbacks, and his presence could be pivotal against Baltimore’s defense, which has shown vulnerability against the pass this season.

The Ravens allowed 27 passing touchdowns during the regular season, with 18 of those scores coming from wide receivers. Cooper, a five-time Pro Bowler, has recorded modest numbers since joining the Bills midseason from Cleveland, with 44 catches for 547 yards and four touchdowns across 14 games. However, his veteran experience and ability to exploit man coverage could prove crucial against Baltimore’s defensive scheme.

Baltimore’s run defense has been nearly impenetrable, surrendering just 80.1 rushing yards per game during the regular season. Only New York Giants‘ running back Saquon Barkley managed to break the 100-yard barrier against them. This could force the Bills to rely heavily on their passing attack, where Cooper’s matchup against Baltimore’s secondary offers a potential advantage.

In their September meeting, the Bills struggled on the ground, managing just 81 yards on 23 rushing attempts against the Ravens’ formidable front. Cooper’s ability to stretch the field and create separation could be key to unlocking Baltimore’s defense. Last week, the Ravens gave up touchdowns to Pittsburgh Steelers’ wide receivers George Pickens and Van Jefferson, highlighting potential weaknesses in their secondary.

At 30 years old, Cooper’s performance in this high-stakes game could also influence his free-agency prospects. NFL insiders, including Brian Hines of Pats Pulpit, have linked him to potential suitors like the New England Patriots. Cooper’s track record includes seven 1,000-yard seasons across stints with the Oakland Raiders, Dallas Cowboys, and Cleveland Browns, and a strong showing Sunday could remind the league of his elite capabilities.

The stakes are immense, with a trip to the AFC Championship Game on the line. Cooper’s ability to rise to the occasion could determine whether the Bills advance or see their season end.