It could be the news Jonathan Cooper was looking for after learning of his trade from the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals to the New England Patriots on Tuesday.
The former Hoggard standout was dealt for defensive end Chandler Jones – the 21st overall pick in the 2012 NFL draft. During his four years in New England, Jones had 211 tackles, 36 sacks and 10 forced fumbles in 55 games.
With Cooper in good health heading into camp this summer, the former All-American will get a chance to prove his ability and compete under one of the finest minds in the NFL, Coach Bill Belichek. The six-time Super Bowl champion is a mastermind when it comes to putting together a football team, known for using multiple offensive linemen in the rotation. Cooper’s ability to play nearly every position up front and his passion to be a student of the game should be a win-win situation and predictable turnaround for the Wilmington native.
Related story: Braswell in Cooper’s corner for NFC Championship against Panthers
