A Veteran’s Exit Turns Into a League-Wide Headache
The New Orleans Saints’ decision to part ways with veteran wide receiver
Brandin Cooks has spiraled into one of the most complicated NFL release sagas in recent memory. What should have been a routine roster move has instead exposed contract loopholes, league rule ambiguities, and even whispers of potential tampering.
The “Poison Pill” Contract Twist
Cooks, 32, signed a two-year deal worth up to
$13 million to return to the Saints in March, but his role in the offense quickly diminished. Frustrated by limited opportunities—just 19 catches for 165 yards in 10 games—Cooks requested his release, and the Saints agreed.
But the process hit a wall. According to multiple sources, the Saints and Cooks negotiated a contract modification designed to help him clear waivers and become a true free agent. The so-called “poison pill” would have forced any team claiming Cooks to take on a hefty
$5.94 million guaranteed salary for 2026, making it highly unlikely anyone would risk a waiver claim. The plan: Cooks would forfeit his remaining 2025 salary in exchange for his freedom.
NFL Pushback and Rulebook Gray Areas
The NFL quickly flagged the move. League rules prohibit teams from altering contracts specifically to deter waiver claims. After being told their arrangement was not permissible, the Saints tried to revert the contract, lowering the guarantee back to
$1.69 million and giving themselves a narrow window to release Cooks without triggering the higher obligation.
Despite these efforts, the league’s stance remained firm: once a contract is altered to manipulate waivers, it cannot simply be undone. As of Friday, Cooks had not officially been waived, leaving his future in limbo and the Saints facing scrutiny over their handling of the situation.
Tampering Concerns and League-Wide Ripples
The saga has raised eyebrows across the NFL. Some insiders suggest the Saints’ maneuvering could constitute collusion or tampering, especially if Cooks or his representatives were in contact with other teams before his official release. With the trade deadline long past, any such discussions would be a clear violation of league policy.
Meanwhile, teams in need of a veteran receiver are watching closely. Cooks, who has played for five teams in his 12-year career, is still seen as a valuable asset for a playoff run. His release—if it happens—could spark a bidding war among contenders like the Buffalo Bills, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and New England Patriots, all rumored to be interested.
What’s Next for Cooks and the Saints?
For now, the Saints have two options: keep Cooks on the roster or proceed with his release and risk league intervention. The NFL may also investigate the contract modifications for potential rule violations, which could have broader implications for how teams handle veteran releases in the future.
Cooks, for his part, remains philosophical. “Obviously, it’s been frustrating with the minimum opportunities, but all I know is to grind, all I know is to work,” he told reporters. “Hopefully I get more opportunities as I continue to display that”.
Takeaways and Future Implications
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The Saints’ attempt to engineer Cooks’ release has exposed a gray area in NFL contract rules.
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Other teams are watching closely, as the outcome could set a precedent for future veteran releases.
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Cooks’ next move—if and when he’s officially released—could reshape the playoff picture for several contenders.
This story is still developing, and all eyes are on the NFL’s next move. Will the league allow the Saints to release Cooks, or will this saga end with both sides stuck in an awkward stalemate?
Sources
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