Los Angeles Rams: Brandin Cooks helps pave road to Super Bowl 53
When the Los Angeles Rams acquired Brandin Cooks, they made a splash that could be key to a Super Bowl run in 2018.
Brandin Cooks is easily in the top 10 of NFL wide receivers in terms of talent. Despite that, Cooks has had a pretty rocky career. Starting off with the New Orleans Saints, he was dynamic before being traded away to the Patriots. After a single season in New England where he was great, he was again shipped off to the Los Angeles Rams.
Even with the consistent moving, Cooks has continued to play at a high level. With a big contract now inked with the Rams, Los Angeles was definitely the best landing spot.
Before 2018, Cooks probably wasn’t a good fit for the Rams. That was until Sean McVay took over and everything changed. Since McVay became the head coach, the Rams went from being a laughingstock to a contender. McVay’s confidence and willingness to try new things brought them first Sammy Watkins and, after his free agency departure, Cooks.
It also brought them some other big names, but Cooks is special. Cooks has played under Drew Brees and Tom Brady, but Jared Goff could be his biggest challenge. It’s going to be a test for both Goff and Cooks. Goff is going to have to learn how to utilize Cooks while Cooks is going to have to earn Goff’s trust.
Having Cooks there also takes some of the pressure off Goff though. With Brees and Brady, the two were able to find Cooks when in crisis. Goff and Cooks need to foster a similar relationship. Hopefully, their connection solidifies this regular season.
Cooks also takes the pressure off some of this fellow teammates. Defensively, the team should have a break when Cooks is on the field. Even with Todd Gurley’s mega-contract, it could give the running back a chance to rest too.
The main reason Cooks and the Rams worked out so well was money. Neither the Saints nor the Patriots could shell out a big contract for Cooks. The Rams have a relatively young team and the means to do so, however. Cooks is finally getting the contract and, hopefully, the recognition he deserves.
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As for Cooks taking them to the Super Bowl, he’s already played in one, meaning he has a little bit of experience at least. Cooks is also great at finding opportunities other players wouldn’t. He runs unique routes, is a deep threat, plays well a blocker and adapts to his role quickly.
The Rams were missing someone like that and adding Cooks was a smart move. If Cooks can put up big numbers like he did with the Saints and Pats, there’s no telling what the Rams will do. Hopefully, Cooks has finally found a home with Rams and won’t be moving again.