What's Happening?
The New Orleans Saints have announced the release of veteran wide receiver Brandin Cooks. Cooks, who signed a two-year contract worth up to $13 million with the Saints in March, has struggled to make a significant
impact on the team's offense this season. He recorded 19 receptions for 165 yards and no touchdowns, failing to meet the incentives in his contract related to receptions, receiving touchdowns, playing time, and receiving yards. Cooks was originally drafted by the Saints in the first round of the 2014 draft but was traded to the New England Patriots in 2017. Over his 12-season career, Cooks has accumulated 729 receptions for 9,697 yards and 60 touchdowns. The release of Cooks follows the trade of another Saints wide receiver, Rashid Shaheed, to the Seattle Seahawks earlier this season.
Why It's Important?
The release of Brandin Cooks is a significant move for the New Orleans Saints as they attempt to revamp their offensive strategy amid a challenging season. Cooks' departure opens up opportunities for younger wide receivers on the team to step up and fill the void left by the veteran. This decision reflects the Saints' broader strategy to rebuild and focus on developing new talent, especially as they navigate a season with a 2-8 record. The move also highlights the financial implications for the team, as Cooks' contract included substantial incentives that were not met, potentially freeing up resources for other investments. For Cooks, the release provides an opportunity to join another team where he might have a more prominent role, given his extensive experience and past success in the league.
What's Next?
Brandin Cooks will become a free agent if he goes unclaimed on waivers, allowing him to negotiate with other teams. Given his experience and previous success, Cooks is likely to attract interest from teams looking to bolster their receiving corps for the remainder of the season. The Saints, meanwhile, will focus on integrating new talent into their offensive lineup, including Kevin Austin Jr., who was signed off the practice squad in a corresponding move. The team will continue to evaluate their roster and make adjustments as they aim to improve their performance in the second half of the season.
