The struggling New Orleans Saints offense just took another hit. The Saints just have not looked totally in sync this season as Drew Brees and company fell out of first place in the NFC South following one of their worst offensive performances against the Cincinnati Bengals. Now, Brees will have to make do without one of his favorite targets on the field after Brandin Cooks was ruled out for the remainder of the season.
Cooks was officially placed on injured reserve ending his strong rookie season with the Saints. The wide receiver had quickly been developing into one of Brees' favorite receivers, but a broken thumb has ended the year for Cooks and placed a lot of pressure on the remaining offensive players to step up in his place. According to NFL.com, Cooks was on pace to finish the year with 880 yards receiving with the chance of getting named Offensive Rookie of the Year as he displayed dynamic abilities.
With Cooks out, Jimmy Graham is of course the top target. But, the tight end runs the risk of getting double-teamed by defenses with Cooks out of the picture. The Saints will likely start Rovert Meachem and newly reinstated receiver Joe Morgan in place of Cooks along with Marques Colston who currently ranks in as the third-best wide receiver on the team. A fantasy sleeper pick could be Kenny Stills. The second-year pro is thriving with more responsibility this season, putting up 431 yards. The Saints will give him a lot more looks with Brandin out.
One positive for the Saints has been their rushing attack which will continue to be the x-factor as New Orleans tries to retake the top spot in the division. Mark Ingram is having a career-high season with New Orleans and will get plenty of time to continue putting up big numbers as Brees looks to the run game for help. The return of Pierre Thomas will also be critical. The dynamic back as been out with a shoulder injury, but the Saints believe he could be back this coming week which would provide relief for Brees. Khiry Robinson's return will also be a welcomed sight.
