Brandin Cooks: The NFL’s Underrated Wide Receiver Star

Brandin Cooks, a talented wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL), has consistently demonstrated skill, speed, and reliability throughout his career. Despite being somewhat underrated, Cooks has proven himself as a valuable asset to every team he has played for. This article will delve into Cooks’ background, career highlights, and his impact on the NFL.

Early Life and College Career

Born on September 25, 1993, in Stockton, California, Brandin Cooks grew up in a family of athletes. He attended Lincoln High School, where he excelled in both football and track and field. Following high school, Cooks attended Oregon State University, where he played college football for the Oregon State Beavers. During his time at Oregon State, Cooks showcased his speed and agility, earning him the nickname “Sonic Boom.” In his junior season, Cooks won the Fred Biletnikoff Award, given to the nation’s top wide receiver, and was named a consensus All-American.

NFL Career

Cooks was drafted in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints, where he played for three seasons. In his time with the Saints, Cooks quickly established himself as a deep threat, racking up 1,000 receiving yards in both the 2015 and 2016 seasons.

In 2017, Cooks was traded to the New England Patriots. He played a significant role in their offense, finishing the season with 65 receptions, 1,082 receiving yards, and seven touchdowns. Although the Patriots lost Super Bowl LII to the Philadelphia Eagles, Cooks had a noteworthy performance in the playoffs.

The following year, Cooks was traded to the Los Angeles Rams. Once again, he had a strong season, with 1,204 receiving yards and five touchdowns. Cooks and the Rams made it to Super Bowl LIII, but they fell short against his former team, the New England Patriots.

Cooks was traded to the Houston Texans in 2020, where he continued to produce impressive numbers despite the team’s struggles. In the 2021 season, Cooks recorded 81 receptions, 1,150 receiving yards, and six touchdowns, further solidifying his status as a reliable and consistent wide receiver.

Impact on the NFL

Despite being traded multiple times and flying somewhat under the radar, Brandin Cooks has been a model of consistency in the NFL. He has consistently surpassed 1,000 receiving yards in five of his first eight seasons and has been a deep threat for every team he has played for.

Cooks’ speed and route-running ability make him a challenge for opposing defenses. His versatility allows him to line up in various positions on the field, creating mismatches and opportunities for big plays. Furthermore, Cooks is known for his strong work ethic and professionalism, making him a valuable teammate and role model for younger players.

Conclusion

Brandin Cooks has carved out a successful NFL career as a wide receiver, consistently delivering impressive performances despite being somewhat underrated. His speed, agility, and consistency have made him a valuable asset to every team he has played for, and his contributions to the sport should not be overlooked. As he continues to excel in the NFL, it is clear that Brandin Cooks will leave a lasting impact on the game.