The Dallas Cowboys face several tough decisions this offseason, with rumors swirling about potential player departures. New head coach Brian Schottenheimer will be reshaping the team, and wide receiver Brandin Cooks is a likely candidate to move on.
ESPN’s Bill Barnwell listed Cooks as a potential free agent or trade target, noting that while Cooks is 31, his extensive NFL career might be catching up with him. Barnwell pointed out Cooks’ declining performance, particularly his low yards-per-route-run average, and suggested his next contract might be around $3 million for one year, significantly less than the $8 million he earned last season. Given his career earnings and injury history, Cooks might choose not to play for such a reduced salary.
Cooks’ recent two-year, $39.7 million contract is now over, and he’s unlikely to command a similar deal. While Spotrac estimates his market value at $5 million for one year, the Cowboys must weigh re-signing him against giving opportunities to younger receivers or draft picks.
Cooks’ 2024 season was statistically the worst of his career, hampered by injuries and Dak Prescott’s absence. His receiving numbers have steadily declined over the past five years, even before Prescott’s injury. While Prescott’s absence might be a factor, Cooks’ performance was already trending downwards.