Saints Draft WR Brandin Cooks With First Round Selection [Video]
The New Orleans Saints swapped 1rst round draft picks with the Arizona Cardinals to move up 8 spots to No. 20 overall and select wide receiver/return specialist Brandin Cooks out of Oregon State. The Cardinals received the Saints 3rd round pick (91rst overall) in the deal.
At 5'9, 189 pounds, Cooks possesses elite speed, something he showed off at the NFL Combine when he ran a 4.3 in the 40. He also clocked the fastest 20-yard shuttle (3.81secs) and 60-yard shuttle (10.72 secs) of any Combine player since 2006.
Growing up in Stockton, California, he prepped at Lincoln High, starring in football, basketball, and track. Cooks even competed in the Junior Olympics as a sprinter.
In three years at Oregon State, Cooks set multiple school and conference records. As a Junior last year, Cooks earned plenty of hardware, including All-American status and the Fred Biletnikoff award which goes to the top WR in college football. He also set the Pac-12 record for more receptions (128) and receiving yards (1,730) in a single season.
New Orleans head coach Sean Payton raved about Cooks' speed, as well as his character. While the Saints never brought Cooks in for an official visit, he sat with the Saints staff at the NFL combine for a lengthy conversation, one that left a good impression on Payton and his staff.
Cooks has been applauded for his work ethic, durability, and attitude. According to Payton, he was the best player left on their board, and fills a need.
Here are some highlights of the newest New Orleans Saint.