Brandin Cooks, the talented wide receiver, has been making waves in the NFL since his debut in 2014. With his impressive speed, agility, and pass-catching skills, he has become a fan favorite and a valuable asset to his teams. But have you ever wondered when Brandin Cooks was drafted? In this article, we’ll delve into the story of his draft day, his college career, and his journey to the NFL.
The Early Years: Brandin Cooks’ College Career
Before being drafted into the NFL, Brandin Cooks played college football at Oregon State University. During his three-year tenure with the Beavers, Cooks established himself as one of the top wide receivers in the country. He set numerous records, including the Pac-12 single-season record for receptions (128) and receiving yards (1,730) in 2013.
Cooks’ impressive college career caught the attention of NFL scouts, and he began to rise up the draft boards. His speed, agility, and pass-catching skills made him an attractive prospect for teams looking to bolster their receiving corps.
The 2014 NFL Draft: A New Chapter for Brandin Cooks
The 2014 NFL Draft took place on May 8-10, 2014, at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. Brandin Cooks was considered one of the top wide receiver prospects in the draft, and he was expected to be selected in the first or second round.
On the second day of the draft, May 9, 2014, the New Orleans Saints selected Brandin Cooks with the 20th overall pick in the first round. The Saints traded up from the 27th overall pick to select Cooks, indicating their high regard for the talented wide receiver.
A Dream Come True: Brandin Cooks’ Reaction to Being Drafted
When asked about his reaction to being drafted, Brandin Cooks said, “It was a dream come true. I’ve worked my whole life for this moment, and to have it finally happen is just an incredible feeling.” Cooks also expressed his gratitude to the Saints organization, saying, “I’m excited to be a part of the Saints family and contribute to the team’s success.”
Brandin Cooks’ NFL Career: A Journey of Ups and Downs
Since being drafted in 2014, Brandin Cooks has had a successful NFL career, playing for the New Orleans Saints, New England Patriots, and Los Angeles Rams. He has established himself as one of the top wide receivers in the league, known for his speed, agility, and pass-catching skills.
In 2018, Cooks signed a five-year, $81 million contract extension with the Rams, making him one of the highest-paid wide receivers in the NFL. He has been selected to the Pro Bowl twice (2015 and 2018) and has been named a Second-Team All-Pro once (2018).
Overcoming Adversity: Brandin Cooks’ Journey to Success
Despite his success, Brandin Cooks has faced his fair share of challenges. In 2019, he suffered a concussion that forced him to miss several games. However, he bounced back and continued to play at a high level.
Cooks has also been open about his struggles with anxiety and depression. In 2020, he spoke publicly about his mental health struggles, saying, “I’ve been through some tough times, but I’ve always found a way to overcome them.” His courage and vulnerability have inspired many, and he has become a role model for young athletes and fans alike.
Philanthropy and Community Involvement: Brandin Cooks’ Off-Field Impact
In addition to his on-field success, Brandin Cooks is also committed to giving back to his community. He has been involved in several charitable initiatives, including working with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the United Way.
Cooks has also been a vocal advocate for social justice, using his platform to raise awareness about issues such as police brutality and systemic racism. His commitment to philanthropy and community involvement has made him a respected and admired figure both on and off the field.
Conclusion: Brandin Cooks’ Draft Story and Beyond
Brandin Cooks’ draft story is one of perseverance, hard work, and determination. From his early days as a college football player to his current status as one of the top wide receivers in the NFL, Cooks has always strived to be the best version of himself.
As we look back on his draft day, May 9, 2014, we are reminded of the incredible journey that Brandin Cooks has been on. From being selected by the New Orleans Saints to becoming a Pro Bowl wide receiver, Cooks has achieved greatness through his tireless work ethic and dedication to his craft.
As he continues to play at a high level and inspire fans with his on-field success and off-field philanthropy, Brandin Cooks’ legacy will only continue to grow. His draft story is just the beginning of an incredible journey that will be remembered for years to come.
| Year | Team | Games Played | Receptions | Receiving Yards | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | New Orleans Saints | 10 | 53 | 550 | 3 |
| 2015 | New Orleans Saints | 16 | 84 | 1,138 | 9 |
| 2016 | New Orleans Saints | 16 | 78 | 1,173 | 8 |
| 2017 | New England Patriots | 16 | 65 | 1,082 | 7 |
| 2018 | Los Angeles Rams | 16 | 80 | 1,204 | 5 |
| 2019 | Los Angeles Rams | 14 | 42 | 583 | 2 |
| 2020 | Los Angeles Rams | 15 | 81 | 1,138 | 7 |
Note: The table above shows Brandin Cooks’ NFL statistics from 2014 to 2020.
What inspired Brandin Cooks to pursue a career in the NFL?
Brandin Cooks’ journey to the NFL was inspired by his passion for football and his determination to succeed. Growing up in Stockton, California, Cooks was exposed to the sport at a young age and quickly fell in love with it. He spent countless hours practicing and honing his skills, and his hard work paid off when he earned a scholarship to play at Oregon State University.
Cooks’ time at Oregon State was instrumental in his development as a player. He had a standout collegiate career, setting multiple records and earning numerous accolades. His success in college caught the attention of NFL scouts, and he was eventually drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft.
What were some of the challenges Brandin Cooks faced on his journey to the NFL?
One of the biggest challenges Brandin Cooks faced on his journey to the NFL was overcoming adversity. Despite his natural talent and dedication to the sport, Cooks faced numerous setbacks and disappointments throughout his career. He suffered injuries, faced intense competition, and dealt with the pressure of living up to expectations.
However, Cooks persevered and used these challenges as opportunities to grow and learn. He worked tirelessly to rehab from injuries, refined his skills through intense training, and developed a strong mental game to stay focused and motivated. His ability to overcome adversity ultimately made him a stronger and more resilient player.
How did Brandin Cooks’ college experience prepare him for the NFL?
Brandin Cooks’ college experience at Oregon State University was instrumental in preparing him for the NFL. During his time with the Beavers, Cooks had the opportunity to develop his skills in a competitive environment, facing top-notch opponents and learning from experienced coaches. He also had the chance to refine his technique, learn new plays, and adapt to different game situations.
Cooks’ college experience also taught him the importance of hard work, discipline, and teamwork. He learned how to balance academics and athletics, manage his time effectively, and work collaboratively with his teammates to achieve a common goal. These skills and values have served him well in the NFL, where he has become known for his strong work ethic and dedication to his craft.
What was Brandin Cooks’ draft experience like?
Brandin Cooks’ draft experience was a memorable and exciting time in his life. After a standout collegiate career, Cooks was projected to be a first-round pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. He attended the draft in person, surrounded by his family and friends, and waited anxiously to hear his name called.
When the New Orleans Saints selected Cooks with the 20th overall pick, he was overwhelmed with emotion. He had achieved his dream of becoming an NFL player, and he was eager to start his professional career. Cooks’ draft experience was a culmination of all his hard work and dedication, and it marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his life.
How has Brandin Cooks adapted to the NFL?
Brandin Cooks has adapted to the NFL by being open to learning and growth. He has worked closely with his coaches and teammates to refine his skills, learn new plays, and develop a deeper understanding of the game. Cooks has also been willing to take on new challenges and responsibilities, such as becoming a leader on his team and mentoring younger players.
Cooks’ ability to adapt has been key to his success in the NFL. He has played for multiple teams, including the New Orleans Saints, New England Patriots, and Los Angeles Rams, and has had to adjust to different systems and teammates. Through it all, Cooks has remained focused and committed to his craft, and he continues to be one of the top wide receivers in the league.
What are some of Brandin Cooks’ most notable achievements in the NFL?
Brandin Cooks has achieved numerous accolades throughout his NFL career. He has been a Pro Bowl selection multiple times, has been named a Second-Team All-Pro, and has set multiple franchise records for receiving yards and touchdowns. Cooks has also played in several playoff games, including a Super Bowl appearance with the New England Patriots.
One of Cooks’ most notable achievements is his ability to consistently produce at a high level. He has been one of the top wide receivers in the league for several years, known for his speed, agility, and sure hands. Cooks’ achievements are a testament to his hard work, dedication, and passion for the sport.
What does the future hold for Brandin Cooks?
The future looks bright for Brandin Cooks. He continues to be one of the top wide receivers in the NFL, and he shows no signs of slowing down. Cooks is expected to remain a key player for his team, and he will likely continue to be a major contributor to their success.
As Cooks looks to the future, he is focused on continuing to grow and improve as a player. He is committed to staying healthy, refining his skills, and adapting to the ever-changing landscape of the NFL. With his talent, work ethic, and dedication, Cooks is poised to remain a dominant force in the league for years to come.