Confident Cooper ready to run with the big boys

When the Eagles decided not to pursue Plaxico Burress, the thought was they already had a big target on the roster.

In Riley Cooper.

In fact, quarterback Michael Vick has told Cooper that he’s a big fan.

“He told me, ‘I love having my big wideout out there. I love having a big target I can throw to,’” Cooper said.

Vick and Cooper worked together almost exclusively during last year’s training camp, as members of the second-team offense. The then-rookie led all Eagles receivers in the 2010 preseason, racking up nine catches for 149 yards.

“We built a lot of chemistry,” Cooper said.

That was evident again in last week’s preseason opener. Cooper, who ran with the first-team offense, set up a touchdown after hauling in a 42-yard bomb from Vick.

With the uncertainty surrounding projected starter Jeremy Maclin, Cooper may be called on as early as Week 1. The 6-foot-3 receiver said he would be ready to start if coach Andy Reid wanted to throw him into the fire.

“It’s always good to have confidence,” Cooper said. “Jeremy’s a great player, I don’t know what his deal is, but I hope he gets back soon … but if that’s what I’m called to do [start Week 1], then I can do it.”