Despite missing a significant chunk of the 2024 season, Brandin Cooks made a pivotal impact in the Cowboys’ Thanksgiving win over the Giants on November 28. His touchdown helped secure the lead and, ultimately, the victory. In a game where CeeDee Lamb struggled to connect on key passes, Cooks showed why his presence is vital to the Cowboys’ offense.
How Brandin Cooks Elevates the Cowboys’ Offense
Although Cooks isn’t the flashiest wide receiver on the team, his ability to contribute in key moments cannot be overlooked. Against the Giants, he registered just three catches on seven targets for 16 yards. Not exactly eye-popping numbers, but what Cooks offers goes beyond just yards and receptions. He has a knack for finding the end zone, as evidenced by his touchdown against the Giants and his earlier score against the Browns.
In an offense where receivers often struggle to gain separation, Cooks can be counted on to make the tough catches when they matter most. His reliability in clutch moments, especially in the red zone, is something the Cowboys need more of—particularly when Lamb is having an off day or when other receivers fail to step up.
The Cowboys’ Struggles with Depth at Wide Receiver
One of the glaring weaknesses for the Cowboys this season has been the lack of consistent production from their other wide receivers. The trade for Jonathan Mingo, in particular, hasn’t panned out as expected. Mingo has struggled with catching the ball, often letting catchable passes slip through his hands. Against the Giants, Mingo finished with one reception on four targets—none of which were game-changers. While some may point to his lack of familiarity with the playbook, the reality is that Mingo’s performance has been underwhelming when he’s been called upon.
The same concerns apply to players like Jalen Tolbert and Jalen Brooks. Tolbert, despite some receiving yards, has shown inconsistent effort. There are plays where it’s clear he isn’t fully committed, and this has led to missed opportunities on big plays. Kavontae Turpin, who has had moments of promise, also struggles to deliver when the game is on the line. The lack of reliable depth behind Lamb is evident and is hurting the Cowboys’ offense, especially in crucial moments.
Why the Cowboys Need Brandin Cooks
Cooks may be the oldest wide receiver on the roster, but his experience and playmaking ability are essential for the Cowboys’ success. His veteran presence provides stability in a room full of young, unproven talent. Without Cooks, the Cowboys would be left with Lamb—who, as good as he is, can’t shoulder the entire load on his own—and a group of receivers who have yet to prove they can consistently step up when needed.
Cooks’ contract expires at the end of the season, and the Cowboys will have a decision to make. If they let him walk due to concerns over his production, the hope would be that they can find a replacement via trade or the draft. However, based on past attempts to replace proven veterans with unproven draft picks, it’s a risky move that may not work out as planned. Jerry Jones and the Cowboys’ front office have often relied on the draft to fill roster holes, but they should be cautious about underestimating the value of a player like Cooks, whose consistency and ability to perform in key moments have been crucial to the team.
The bottom line is that Brandin Cooks is necessary for the Cowboys’ wide receiver room, both in terms of leadership and on-field production. If the team lets him go, they risk losing a steady, reliable option that the offense sorely needs. The Cowboys should look at what Cooks has brought to the table this season, especially in pivotal moments, and understand that his value far exceeds his stat line.
