HOUSTON — The Houston Texans have gone through a significant transition over the past 20 months, and the one consistent throughout the turmoil has been Brandin Cooks.
Since the Texans acquired the 28-year-old receiver from the Los Angeles Rams in April of 2020, Cooks has been arguably a sense of reassurance in Houston. Cooks has recorded 2,161 receiving yards on 168 catches and 12 touchdowns while leading a locker room in turmoil with his leadership qualities.
Most players of Cooks’ caliber would compel an exit from the franchise to find a better situation for their careers. But Cooks has learned to embrace the difficult challenges and has experienced personal growth during the process.
“No matter the circumstances, whatever is going on, you can depend on me and I will ball regardless of what is going on around me,” Cooks said during his exit media availability on Monday. “I also think from a leadership standpoint, the way I had to lead, I learned a lot about myself — especially this year everything that’s been going on. I just have to continue to take that and build on that and lead guys around me.”
Despite the Texans accumulating an 8-25 record over the previous two seasons, Cooks has not let the constant losing deprive him of his appreciation in Houston.
If he returns to the Texans for the 2022 campaign, it will mark the first time since the 2016 season Cooks played three consecutive years for the same franchise. Cooks accomplished the feat as a member of the New Orleans Saints before he was traded to the New England Patriots the following offseason.
After one season in New England, the Patriots shipped Cooks to Los Angeles despite his contributions playing a significant role in helping the team reach Super Bowl LII.
It’s the first time in Cooks’ career there is a sense of stability entering the offseason, which he describes as an “awesome” feeling.
However, with one year left on his current contract, this offseason will determine whether or not the Texans have any long-term plans for their top receiver.
“I’ll leave that to my agent, and I’ll leave that to my representation and Nick (Caserio) and whoever else is involved in that decision making,” Cooks said. “I’m fine with whatever, and we will just see what happens. I haven’t really thought about that to be honest with you.”
