Cooks snatched up 9,532 yards as a receiver in 1055 games throughout his career. He snagged 710 passes thrown his way which averages 13.4 YPC. yards and he was able to catch 64.6% of the passes thrown to him. Cooks (60 receiving TD’s) accumulated an average of 9.0 yds per contest receiving and he has 0.7 catches per game in his career. Brandin Cooks is a name that resonates with NFL fans and sports enthusiasts alike. Known for his remarkable speed and agility, Cooks has carved out a significant place for himself in the NFL. This article will delve into the evolution of Brandin Cooks’ career, examining his journey through different teams, his impressive stats, and how he stands out among NFL wide receivers.
Early Life and College Career
Brandin Cooks was born on September 25, 1993, in Stockton, California. He showed an early interest in football and quickly became a standout player in high school. His talent earned him a scholarship to Oregon State University, where he continued to hone his skills as a wide receiver.
During his time at Oregon State, Cooks made a name for himself with his exceptional performances. In his junior year, he caught 128 passes for 1,730 yards and 16 touchdowns, earning him the prestigious Biletnikoff Award as the nation’s top college receiver.
Entry into the NFL
Cooks declared for the NFL draft after his junior year, and his college success translated into high expectations at the professional level. In 2014, he was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the first round as the 20th overall pick. His entry into the NFL marked the beginning of what would become a dynamic and versatile career.
New Orleans Saints
Cooks’ career with the Saints set the stage for his future successes. During his three seasons in New Orleans, he quickly became a favorite target for quarterback Drew Brees. He recorded over 1,000 receiving yards in both the 2015 and 2016 seasons, showcasing his ability to make big plays.
His speed and route-running capabilities allowed him to stretch the field and become a deep-threat receiver. However, the competitive nature of the team and the emergence of other receivers eventually led to Cooks being traded to the New England Patriots in 2017.
New England Patriots
Joining the Patriots provided Cooks with an opportunity to play for one of the NFL’s most successful franchises. Under the guidance of coach Bill Belichick and alongside quarterback Tom Brady, Cooks continued to shine. He recorded 1,082 receiving yards and seven touchdowns in his single season with the Patriots.
Cooks’ time in New England was marked by his contributions to the team’s Super Bowl LII run, although they ultimately lost to the Philadelphia Eagles. Despite his success, the Patriots traded him to the Los Angeles Rams in 2018.
Los Angeles Rams
The move to the Rams proved beneficial for Cooks, as he fit seamlessly into coach Sean McVay’s offensive scheme. In his first year with the Rams, Cooks recorded 1,204 receiving yards and five touchdowns, playing a crucial role in the team’s journey to Super Bowl LIII.
Although the Rams did not win the championship, Cooks’ performance solidified his reputation as a top-tier wide receiver. However, injuries and a shift in the Rams’ offensive focus led to Cooks being traded to the Houston Texans in 2020.
Houston Texans and Beyond
Cooks’ arrival in Houston marked another chapter in his career. Despite the team’s struggles, Cooks continued to put up impressive numbers, demonstrating his resilience and consistency. In his first season with the Texans, he recorded 1,150 receiving yards and six touchdowns.
His ability to produce under challenging circumstances highlighted his value as a player. As of the 2023 season, Cooks remains a vital component of the Texans’ offense, continuing to showcase his skills and contributing to the team’s efforts.
Brandin Cooks’ Stats and Impact
Throughout his career, Brandin Cooks has consistently demonstrated why he is one of the NFL’s premier wide receivers. His career stats reflect his impact on the field:
Over 8,000 receiving yards
More than 40 touchdowns
Multiple seasons with 1,000+ receiving yards
Cooks’ speed and agility make him a constant threat to defenses, while his route-running precision allows him to create separation from defenders. These attributes, combined with his work ethic and professionalism, have cemented his status as a reliable and dangerous receiver.
Comparison with Other NFL Wide Receivers
In the landscape of NFL wide receivers, Cooks stands out for his consistency and versatility. While some receivers may boast more eye-catching statistics or accolades, Cooks’ ability to adapt to different teams and systems is a testament to his skill and dedication.
His career trajectory highlights his adaptability and resilience, as he has thrived in various offensive schemes and alongside multiple quarterbacks. This adaptability makes him a valuable asset to any team he joins.
Conclusion
Brandin Cooks’ evolution in the NFL is a story of talent, perseverance, and adaptability. From his college days at Oregon State to his current role with the Houston Texans, Cooks has consistently proven himself as a top-tier wide receiver. His impressive stats and ability to impact games make him a standout player in the NFL.
As Cooks continues to build on his career, fans and analysts alike will watch with anticipation to see what new heights he can reach. Whether it’s with the Texans or another team in the future, one thing is certain: Brandin Cooks will continue to leave his mark on the NFL.