The New Orleans Saints are bringing back a familiar face to the Superdome. Free-agent wide receiver Brandin Cooks is returning to the team that drafted him, signing a two-year deal worth $13 million, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. This reunion marks Cooks' second stint in New Orleans, where he initially burst onto the scene as a dynamic playmaker after being selected in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft.
Cooks' journey since leaving New Orleans has been a whirlwind tour of the NFL. After three productive seasons with the Saints, he was traded to the New England Patriots, followed by stints with the Los Angeles Rams and Houston Texans before landing with the Dallas Cowboys last season. While he has maintained a respectable level of production throughout his career, Cooks hasn't quite replicated the electrifying performances that defined his early years in New Orleans.
This return to the Saints presents a compelling opportunity for both player and team. For Cooks, it's a chance to reignite his career in a familiar system, reuniting with head coach Dennis Allen and potentially recapturing the magic he once displayed in the black and gold. The Saints, meanwhile, gain a proven veteran receiver who can stretch the field, provide a reliable target for quarterback Derek Carr, and add a much-needed dimension to their offense.
The two-year contract signifies the Saints' belief in Cooks' ability to contribute meaningfully and their commitment to integrating him into their long-term plans. The $13 million price tag reflects his market value and the team's willingness to invest in a player they believe can make a significant impact. Saints fans are undoubtedly eager to see Cooks back in action, hoping he can recapture his past glory and help propel the team to greater heights. The question remains: can Cooks rediscover his prime form in New Orleans and help lead the Saints back to playoff contention?