Saints release WR Brandin Cooks after disappointing season; second receiver to depart
The New Orleans Saints have released veteran wide receiver Brandin Cooks after an underwhelming season.
Why it matters: This decision marks a significant shift for the Saints' receiving corps, which has seen a notable turnover this season.
- Cooks, who signed a two-year deal worth up to $13 million in March, was expected to contribute more significantly but fell short of performance expectations.
- His release comes on the heels of another departure; Rashid Shaheed was traded to the Seattle Seahawks earlier in the season, indicating a broader strategy by the Saints to reshape their roster.
What’s new: Cooks’ tenure with the Saints has ended after just one season following his return from previous stints with multiple teams including the New England Patriots and Los Angeles Rams.
- During his time with the Saints in 2023, Cooks recorded only 19 catches for 165 yards and failed to score any touchdowns.
- He finished fifth in receptions on the team during the first half of the season, a disappointing outcome given his potential as a former first-round draft pick in 2014.
By the numbers: Cooks had several performance-based incentives in his contract that he did not meet, underscoring his struggles on the field.
- The metrics reveal how far he has fallen: over his 12 seasons in the NFL, Cooks has achieved 729 receptions for 9,697 yards and 60 touchdowns, yet his recent statistics suggest a decline in production.
Yes, but: While Cooks has been a consistent performer historically, his recent performance raises questions about his future.
- At 32 years old, it's uncertain whether he can reclaim the form that made him a sought-after player in previous years.
- Teams will likely weigh his experience against his declining output before considering signing him.
What’s next: The Saints are now positioned to explore other options at the receiver position as they adjust their roster for the upcoming season.
- With Cooks no longer on the roster, the focus may turn to developing younger talent or seeking new acquisitions through free agency or the draft.
- Expect the Saints to prioritize finding receivers who can better fit their offensive system going forward, especially if they aim to enhance their passing game.
The bottom line: The release of Brandin Cooks is both a reflection of his underperformance this season and part of a broader strategic realignment for the Saints, as they seek to build a more effective offensive unit.
