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New England Patriots: Sean Payton Discusses Brandin Cooks Trade

By Nick Ziegler

Dec 18, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Brandin Cooks (10) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Saints defeated the Cardinals 48-41. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 18, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Brandin Cooks (10) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Saints defeated the Cardinals 48-41. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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One of the most shocking trades of the offseason was the New England Patriots acquiring Brandin Cooks. What did Cooks’ former coach have to say about him?

Coming into the offseason, wide receiver was not considered to be a position of need for the New England Patriots. With Julian Edelman, Malcolm Mitchell, and Chris Hogan at wide receiver, the Patriots appeared to be set at the position.

Even with a solid receiver corps, the Patriots made a huge addition by acquiring Cooks from the Saints. Last season, Cooks had a very good season, as he totaled 78 receptions, 1,173 receiving yards, and eight receiving touchdowns.

2016 was the second straight season that Cooks was able to total over 1,000 receiving yards. Even though Cooks had a great season, there have been some rumblings that he was upset with his role in the offense. Cooks’former coach recently discussed that with Mike Triplett of ESPN.com.

"“Ultimately one of the challenges sometimes, especially here in this offense, is the ball gets spread around some, and yet you’re looking at a player that had over 1,200 yards receiving,” Payton said to Mike Triplett of ESPN.com."

Even though Cooks is a great talent, the Saints like being able to get the Patriots’ first round pick for him. With needs on the defensive side of the ball, getting a first round pick might be able to help them improve on that side of the ball.

"“And it really got down to an opportunity to help improve our team possibly defensively. And we’ll be able to look at it three years down the road with what we’re able to do with the first-round pick and also the additional third-round pick.”"

For the Patriots, acquiring Cooks is certainly a huge upgrade for their offense. Last season, the Patriots had one of the best offenses in the NFL. Now, they look even better on paper coming into this season.

Next: 5 Reasons Why Pats Can Repeat as Champs

Despite being a bit upset in New Orleans, Cooks should have a good role in the Patriots’ offense. With other talented options, Cooks’ number might drop a bit. However, he will be on a team that has Super Bowl potential.

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