As the NFL trade deadline approaches, the struggling 1-6 New Orleans Saints appear to be positioning themselves as sellers. General Manager Mickey Loomis is reportedly fielding calls from other clubs regarding potential trades for several players. Among those named as possible trade candidates are wide receivers Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed, running back Alvin Kamara, defensive ends Cameron Jordan and Carl Granderson, linebackers Demario Davis and Pete Werner, cornerback Alontae Taylor, and offensive lineman Dillon Radunz.
Adding to this mix is wide receiver Brandin Cooks, who has also surfaced in trade rumors. According to sources, he could be on the move, a sentiment echoed by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. Cooks, who is 32 years old, carries a unique distinction in the league: if he is traded again, he will set the NFL record for the most trades by a player, currently tied with Kiko Alonso and Eric Dickerson at four.
Originally drafted by the Saints in 2014, Cooks began his career in New Orleans before being traded to the New England Patriots after three seasons. His journey continued through a trade to the Los Angeles Rams and then to the Houston Texans, where he spent three seasons before moving to the Dallas Cowboys in 2023. Despite his frequent relocations, Cooks has maintained a commendable level of performance, achieving over 1,000 receiving yards in five seasons and accumulating over $123 million in earnings throughout his career.
Having returned to New Orleans on a two-year, $13 million deal this offseason, Cooks has a modest salary of $1.26 million for 2025, making his contract favorable for potential trading partners. Reports suggest there is mutual interest in a trade, especially considering Cooks’ hopes of reuniting with quarterback Derek Carr. However, with quarterback Spencer Rattler currently leading the offense, Cooks has trailed behind in production, managing just 14 catches for 127 yards without a touchdown this season.
While Cooks’ performance has declined with age—he has not reached a 1,000-yard season since 2021—his experience could prove valuable to a team in need of a veteran weapon in the passing game. Unlike younger teammates like Shaheed, who the Saints reportedly hope to trade for a third-round pick, Cooks could be a more cost-effective option for clubs seeking to boost their receiving corps.
On the other hand, the Saints seem inclined to retain Olave, who is under club control through 2026 and is engaged in discussions about a contract extension. Reports confirm that Olave’s situation is secure, and both he and the team are reportedly aligned in their future plans.
In this dynamic environment leading up to the trade deadline, the Saints’ potential moves could shape their future, while Cooks’ experience and skill set might provide a boost to teams looking for an established receiver.