The Cleveland Browns received an unexpected absence on the first day of mandatory minicamp as wide receiver Amari Cooper failed to show up. Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed that Cooper's absence was not excused, raising questions about his contract situation.

While Stefanski did not explicitly state if Cooper's absence was contract-related, he acknowledged that there has been ongoing dialogue between the team and Cooper's agent. This suggests that the receiver's absence might be connected to contract negotiations or concerns.

Cooper, who is set to turn 30 next week, is entering the final year of the five-year, $100 million deal he signed as a member of the Dallas Cowboys. In 2024, he has a base salary of $20 million, none of which is guaranteed. This financial situation could be a contributing factor to his absence, as Cooper may be seeking a new contract with guaranteed money.

During the team's open OTA practices, Cooper was notably absent. However, he was seen in Cleveland over the weekend attending tight end David Njoku's celebrity softball game. It remains unclear why he chose to skip the team's official practices but participated in other events.

Cooper's absence comes after the Browns traded a fifth-round pick and swapped sixth-round picks to acquire him in March 2022. In the 2023 season, Cooper recorded impressive numbers, catching 72 passes for a career-high 1,250 yards and five touchdowns. His performance, combined with his previous Pro Bowl selections, has solidified his reputation as one of the league's top receivers.

Teammate Deshaun Watson spoke highly of Cooper, stating that he believes him to be the best in the league. Regardless of the absence, Cooper's talent and consistency have been evident throughout his career, even when playing with different quarterbacks.

As the Browns continue with their mandatory minicamp, speculation surrounds the resolution of Cooper's contract situation and whether he will fully participate in upcoming practices. Until more information is revealed, fans and team officials will eagerly await updates on Cooper's status with the team.