Cowboys Veteran Thinks He's NFL's Top Receiver

It's too early to tell whether the Cowboys will return to glory this fall or follow up last season's 6-10 campaign with more disappointment. One thing we do know is that, from the owner on down, they're not lacking in confidence. The latest example of Dallas bravado comes by way of veteran player Amari Cooper, who feels he's the league's best receiver.

Heading into his seventh pro season, Cooper expressed confidence in his abilities to Cowboys.com: "There's a difference between thinking you're the best and actually going out there and proving it. Do I think I'm the best? Yes. Have I proven it? I wouldn't say I have."

A four-time Pro Bowler, Cooper is certainly at least in the discussion for the league's best pass catcher. Over his career, he's hauled in 449 passes for 6,211 yards and 38 scores. Last fall, Cooper led Dallas in receptions and receiving yards and tied for the team lead in receiving touchdowns.

This season, Cooper has his sights set on not just leading the Cowboys, but the entire league: "There are guys who have actually put up some great numbers, they've taken advantage of their opportunities and stuff like that. I'm just still trying to take advantage of my opportunities and trying to put up those numbers to lead the league in yards, touchdowns, all across the board really."

Cooper has an early opportunity to pace the league's receivers. Dallas visits Tampa Bay on Thursday evening to kickoff the NFL season.

"Everybody's going to be watching this game, so I'm fired up about that," said Cooper.