Saints Shockingly Cut Brandin Cooks

The End of an Era in New Orleans

In a stunning move that sends shockwaves through the NFL, the New Orleans Saints have announced they are mutually parting ways with veteran wide receiver Brandin Cooks. The six-time 1,000-yard receiver, who rejoined the Saints in 2025, becomes the latest casualty of the team's ongoing struggles, leaving behind a legacy of explosive plays while facing an uncertain future at age 32.

Cook's Decline in the Crescent City

Once a cornerstone of the Saints' offense, Cooks' tenure in his second stint with the team has been plagued by diminished production. Through 10 games in the 2025 season, he managed just 19 receptions for 165 yards without a single touchdown – a stark contrast to his peak years. His role as the team's No. 3 receiver saw him targeted only 25 times, reflecting a clear shift in offensive philosophy under head coach Kellen Moore.

"His utilization has taken a major hit in 2025 and the seasons before," noted analysts, pointing to a dramatic decline from his last 1,000-yard season in 2021 with the Houston Texans. The Saints' decision to prioritize younger talent like Rashid Shaheed (who was traded to Seattle) ultimately sealed Cooks' fate despite his proven track record.

Team Rebuild Amid Record Struggles

The move comes as the Saints endure one of their worst seasons in franchise history, sitting at a dismal 2-8 record. With a high first-round draft pick secured for 2026, the organization appears committed to a full-scale rebuild. This decision follows the trade deadline departure of Shaheed and offensive lineman Trevor Penning, signaling a clear direction under general manager Mickey Loomis.

"The organization clearly needs a reset," observed NFL analysts. The Saints' quarterback situation has been equally tumultuous, with rookie Tyler Shough finally seeing significant action after veteran Spencer Rattler's underwhelming performance. With Cooks gone, the already-thin receiving corps faces even greater uncertainty as the team transitions to a youth movement.

"This might have been a bit better to have a full-on fire sale," one insider suggested of the Saints' restrained trade deadline approach.

What's Next for Brandin Cooks?

Now a free agent after clearing waivers, Cooks enters the market with a compelling resume that includes stints with the Saints (twice), Rams, Patriots, Texans, and Titans. Despite his diminished role in New Orleans, his ability to stretch the field and experience in multiple offensive systems make him an attractive option for playoff-contending teams.

"The 32-year-old wideout figures to search for an opportunity to compete elsewhere in the league, likely targeting teams that are in better position to earn a playoff berth," fantasy analysts project. Potential suitors may include teams needing veteran depth or specific skillsets, with Cooks' speed and route-running still valuable assets despite reduced volume.

Saints' Path Forward

For New Orleans, the Cooks release underscores a painful but necessary phase of reconstruction. With elite draft capital and Shough under center as the quarterback of the future, the focus shifts to identifying offensive playmakers through the 2026 NFL Draft. The team's commitment to youth suggests more veteran departures could follow as they build around their rookie quarterback.

As Cooks packs his bags from the Bayou, the Saints enter a new chapter defined by potential and uncertainty. Meanwhile, the veteran receiver begins his search for a fresh start with a team ready to leverage his championship pedigree immediately.