What happened: New York activated Cooper from injured reserve Oct. 17 after going week-to-week with an ankle sprain. He paced Jets receivers in his return game. The score was the first of his career for the 30th overall pick in the 2026 draft out of Indiana.

Why it matters: The outing gives New York immediate return on a first-round rookie after a month sidelined. It clarifies receiver depth entering the second half of the 2026 regular season. Sustained availability would keep him in the rotation rather than on a pitch count.

What to watch: Watch his snap share and targets next week to see whether the lead role holds.