Former Houston Texans receiver Brandin Cooks came full circle this offseason, signing with the New Orleans Saints. This is where the veteran started his career before spending time with the New England Patriots, Los Angeles Rams, Houston Texans, and Dallas Cowboys. Cooks' time in Houston is remembered fondly, with the veteran offering over 1,000 yards in his first two seasons before taking a slight step back in the 2022 season.
While returning home might be a fun story for New Orleans fans, it puts the receiver in the middle of a regrettable quarterback battle. With Derek Carr's surprise retirement, the team is forced to turn to a trio of Jake Haener, Spencer Rattler, and Tyler Shough. "It's going to be fun to watch that competition," Cooks offered when asked about how the battle in New Orleans would play out.
Former Texan Receiver Brandin Cooks Has an Amusing Definition of Fun
The former Houston receiver is in an awful position if the veteran is expecting his numbers to rebound in the 2025 season. Tyler Shough, being a surprise franchise option, is the team's one path to not competing for a top-three pick. Even if Shough is better than expected, it is hard to see the team making any noise in the NFC South.
While it is a weak division, Atlanta and Tampa Bay both have far more talent, while the Saints' overpaid and aging roster continues to decline. For Houston, it is perhaps a situation to keep a close eye on once the regular season arrives. The team could opt to consider a reunion and add additional receiver depth for C.J. Stroud.
The Saints are likely going to be deadline sellers, judging from the team's current quarterback competition. It isn't a stretch to believe Houston fans could see Brandin Cooks in a New Orleans uniform once again. For now, however, the veteran is going to have to be content watching one of the worst quarterback battles in recent memory.
All with the hope that one of the underwhelming trio is able to win the job and consistently find ways to get the receiver the football. A doubtful scenario that appears to doom the former Houston receiver's 2025 season long before it has begun.