Bills sign WR Brandin Cooks after Saints waive him following release request

The Buffalo Bills have signed wide receiver Brandin Cooks after his release from the New Orleans Saints, aiming to bolster their struggling offense.

Why it matters: Cooks' acquisition comes at a crucial time for the Bills, who have not had a 1,000-yard receiver for two consecutive years and are looking to improve their inconsistent scoring, especially on the road.

• The Bills have averaged just 21.8 points per game in their three road losses this season, contrasting sharply with their home average of 32.5 points.
• With Cooks experience and speed, he could potentially provide a much-needed spark to an offense that has struggled to find its rhythm.

What’s new: After requesting his release from the Saints, Cooks cleared waivers and immediately signed with the Bills, who hope to integrate him into their offensive scheme effectively.

• In his brief tenure with the Saints, Cooks caught 19 passes for 165 yards and no touchdowns through 10 games.
• His career stats highlight his potential impact: 729 receptions, 9,697 receiving yards, and 60 touchdowns over 12 seasons.

Yes, but: While Cooks brings notable experience, integrating him into the Bills' system may take time, especially given the added pressure on the team to perform well following trade attempts that fell through before the deadline.

• General manager Brandon Beane acknowledged the team's efforts to acquire players but noted that no deals materialized.
• This may add to the urgency for Cooks to make an immediate impact, as other players like Gabe Davis and Dalton Kincaid are also vying for targets in the passing game.

What to watch: As Cooks joins the roster, attention turns to how head coach Sean McDermott plans to utilize him alongside existing star players.

• Cooks offers a deep threat that complements the skill sets of both Davis and Kincaid, providing quarterback Josh Allen with additional options downfield.
• The effectiveness of this newly formed trio will be critical as the Bills seek to elevate their scoring, particularly in upcoming away games.

The bottom line: With Cooks now on board, the Bills face pivotal matchups that will test their offensive capabilities. Integrating a player of Cooks’ caliber could be the key to turning around their performance and achieving playoff aspirations.

• The Bills must capitalize on this opportunity to revitalize their aerial attack if they wish to contend in a competitive AFC landscape.