The Buffalo Bills have made a strategic move to enhance their passing game by signing veteran wide receiver Brandin Cooks, who was recently waived by the New Orleans Saints. Cooks brings a wealth of experience and capability as he enters his 12th NFL season, adding a much-needed deep threat to a Bills offense that has struggled with consistency this year.
Cooks’ arrival in Buffalo comes shortly after the team had added another veteran wideout, Mecole Hardman, who is currently on injured reserve due to a calf injury sustained in his debut with the Bills. This move underscores the Bills’ urgency to improve their receiving corps as they look to regain their footing in the competitive AFC East. The team has faced challenges recently, suffering four losses in their last seven games and trailing behind the New England Patriots in the divisional race.
The 32-year-old Cooks is no stranger to success, having surpassed 1,000 receiving yards in six seasons, including his last notable performance in 2021 with the Houston Texans. In two seasons with the Dallas Cowboys, he combined for 11 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to find the end zone. After limited opportunities with the Saints this season—recording just 19 catches for 165 yards—it was clear that Cooks sought a more significant role, prompting his request for release.
Drafted in the first round by New Orleans in 2014, Cooks previously played for the Saints for three seasons before moving on to the New England Patriots and Los Angeles Rams. Across his career, he has amassed 729 receptions for nearly 9,700 yards and 60 touchdowns, establishing himself as a valuable asset.
As Cooks integrates into the Bills’ offense, he joins a wide receiver group that has faced scrutiny for its performance and has been affected by injuries and disciplinary challenges. Tight end Dalton Kincaid has missed several games due to a hamstring issue, while young receiver Keon Coleman has been a healthy scratch following disciplinary concerns.
With a crucial game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on the horizon, the Bills are hopeful that Cooks can provide the spark needed to rejuvenate their offense and assist them in their push to reclaim the top spot in their division. The addition of an experienced receiver like Cooks not only reinforces the team’s depth but also illustrates the management’s commitment to enhancing their chances for a successful season.