New England

Pats' Brandin Cooks Meets the Press

The Patriots' new wide receiver spoke with the New England media for the first time

The New England Patriots have a new wide receiver, and Brandin Cooks is already getting a feel for this organization.

“We’re on a mission,” said Cooks. “Whatever mission that may be, I don’t know, but we’re on a mission. That’s what it seems like.”

The 23-year-old from Stockton, California, was drafted in 2014 by the New Orleans Saints, where he spent three seasons and caught a total of 20 touchdowns.

The Patriots loved his speed, big play ability and good hands, and that’s what led to the trade bringing him to Foxboro in the offseason and sending the Saints a first round pick.

“Right away, I love it,” he said, speaking in front of the New England media for the first time. “I love the way they run things here. It’s a blessing to be able to be a part of this organization. I’m just happy to be here.”

In his short career, Cooks has had some pretty impressive quarterbacks throwing to him. He’s going from Drew Brees to Tom Brady.

“It’s amazing,” Cooks said of the Patriots quarterback. “His attention to detail and how focused he is. It’s something that I look at him and I try to strive for, to be just like that. Obviously, the game on TV, he’s amazing, but to see him now in person, in his study habits, is awesome.”

The Oregon State wide-out is also excited about to join a talented corps of wide receivers.

“To come here and do my job and do what I have to do to help this receiving corps be better and help the offense,” he said. “That’s what it’s all about.”

In New Orleans, Cooks wore the number 10. In New England, that number belongs to backup quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo. He said he didn’t even ask him if he could have the number and wanted something different on this new journey, so he’ll wear number 14. He’s also focused on just learning the playbook.

“A lot of time,” said Cooks. “Like I said, I want to make sure I can catch up so I’m not left behind, so every opportunity I get to study the playbook, I do. I’m out here by myself, so I have nothing else to do but think football and study the playbook.”

Cooks has also spent some time getting used to New England. He went to a Celtics game and said he appreciates the sports history here. He also is still adjusting.

“It’s a new transition. You know, a little cold coming from New Orleans, but I love it. I originally grew up on the West Coast, so I’m obviously halfway across the country now – or across the country – but it’s a great atmosphere. Going down to the city is amazing. I live in Oregon now during the offseason, so I’m used to a little bit of cold, rainy days, but it’s a little different out here, so we’ll see."

Contact Us