News broke earlier in the week that the New Orleans Saints would mutually terminate the contract of veteran receiver Brandin Cooks. Both parties believe it is in their best interest to finish the season apart. That release has yet to become official, and according to Adam Schefter of ESPN, it's only a matter of time until it's finished. They are just working through some contractual issues.
With the number of receivers the Pittsburgh Steelers were linked to leading up to the NFL's trade deadline, it wouldn't shock anyone to see the team add to its roster. They have struggled to find a reliable weapon on offense beyond DK Metcalf this season, and it is starting to show nasty warts on offense. They could use a veteran of Cook's stature to help boost the team moving forward.
Once the release becomes official and the playmaker hits the market as a free agent, don't be surprised if several teams check out his status.
Cooks was rumored in trade conversations leading up to the deadline, but nothing materialized. The Steelers were likely one of those teams that showed interest in the long-time speedster, and it wouldn't be surprising to see them circle back to him.
The Pittsburgh Steelers should target WR Brandin Cooks to help boost their offense
It seems obvious that Pittsburgh is doing its best to force Roman Wilson into the second receiver spot. For one reason or another, things haven't clicked just yet. The young weapon hasn't seen quality targets go his way, despite him routinely locating openings on opposing defenses. While the Steelers would love to see Wilson flourish, they might be forced into adding an outside playmaker to help.
Their interest in adding a receiver before the trade deadline clearly showed they lacked trust in the players they have behind Metcalf.
Just because they can no longer make any trades this season doesn't mean they can't consider outside hires. They added Marques Valdes-Scantling as insurance, but he isn't as good a player as Cooks. The soon-to-be former Saints legend has had the more impressive career.
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One of the biggest red flags surrounding Cooks will be his age and whether that has diminished his elite speed. He was known for stretching the field as a deep threat, but if he lost a step, he could be in trouble. He is 32, so his fastest days are behind him. The veteran wideout must use his experience and knowledge of the game to adapt.
If he fails to do that wherever he lands, Cooks could be done after this season concludes.
The Pittsburgh Steelers would love to add the receiver, but fans should temper expectations if the team signs him. He has primarily been a role player over the past two seasons, which could reduce his offensive impact. Cooks can still make some plays, but Pittsburgh shouldn't expect him to be an every-down starter. In reality, he would split snaps with Wilson and Calvin Austin III for the rest of the season.