Who Is Riley Cooper (PHI/WR)

A prime example of the Rosterwatch “Second Team Doctrine”, Riley Cooper, has shown that practice field chemistry leads to game time production. Over the years we have seen it time and time again. The second string QB comes in and immediately relies on the guys he is most comfortable with. Even with the 1st team starters available this is usually another 2nd teamer that the back-up QB has spent countless hours throwing to. It makes so much sense, familiarity breeds confidence and chemistry.

PHI QB, Vince Young, has played two games in place of the injured Mike Vick. In both games Riley Cooper has been a security blanket for VY, accumulating 17 total targets. He has averaged 73 yards/game and scored 1 TD. Just his yardage is enough to warrant starting consideration if you are in a roster bind.

The good thing about Cooper, other than is flowing locks, is his NFL size and athleticism. At 6-4 and 220 lbs, the former Florida Gator is also a former Texas Ranger. We know two sport athletes are traditionally very athletic. Riley went to Florida to play football and baseball. In 2006 he was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies but passed on the chance in order to stay a Gator. Eventually, he signed with the Rangers but put that on hold to go back and play one more year of college football. It turns out football was Cooper’s passion as he ended up being drafted in the 5th round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the Eagles. It is also worth noting, Cooper posted a very solid 4.5 sec. 40 yd. dash at the NFL combine.