In March 2022, the Dallas Cowboys made a decision that shocked fans and experts alike—trading wide receiver Amari Cooper to the Cleveland Browns for a mere fifth-round pick and swapping sixth-round picks.

The move was widely criticized, with many suggesting that the Cowboys were giving away a prime asset for far too little. But in hindsight, the undue criticism directed at the Cowboys front office deserves closer scrutiny.

Amari Cooper, a Pro Bowl wide receiver, had been a crucial part of Dallas’ offense since his arrival in 2018, providing a steady presence and exceptional talent on the field. His production and ability to stretch the field were key to the team’s success, particularly in the 2021 season.

However, the decision to trade him wasn’t made lightly and was driven by several factors that, in the long run, were sound from both a financial and strategic perspective.

First and foremost, Cooper’s salary played a significant role in the Cowboys’ decision-making process. With a $20 million base salary in 2022, Cooper’s contract was one of the highest on the team. The Cowboys were facing difficult salary cap constraints and needed to make room for key players like linebacker Micah Parsons and offensive linemen.

By trading Cooper, they were able to free up nearly $16 million in cap space, which allowed them to be more flexible with their roster and future signings. This financial flexibility is critical for any team hoping to stay competitive long-term.

Moreover, Cooper’s performance in the postseason had been inconsistent. While he posted impressive numbers during the regular season, his production in key playoff games, such as the Cowboys’ disappointing 2021 wild-card loss to the San Francisco 49ers, was underwhelming.

His performance, or lack thereof, raised questions about his ability to deliver when it mattered most, which further justified the front office’s decision.

Additionally, the emergence of younger players like CeeDee Lamb gave Dallas the confidence to move on from Cooper. Lamb, the 2020 first-round pick, had shown he could be a top-tier receiver, and pairing him with a solid supporting cast, including Michael Gallup and tight end Dalton Schultz, helped mitigate the loss.

In the end, the Cowboys front office was strategic in making the move. While the immediate fan reaction may have been one of disappointment, the decision was both financially responsible and a calculated risk.

The criticism often overlooks the long-term benefits of freeing up cap space and allowing younger players to take on a more prominent role.

With the Cowboys continuing to compete at a high level, it’s clear the front office had a vision for the future—a vision that, at least so far, appears to be paying off.