Cowboys WR Brandin Cooks: 'More Than Speed!' Mike McCarthy Scouting Report

Dallas Cowboys receiver Brandin Cooks has been lauded for his speed during his career, but head coach Mike McCarthy details that his new weapon offers far more than just that.

Dallas Cowboys receiver Brandin Cooks is already turning heads this offseason as he looks to hit the ground running ahead of training camp. 

Acquired from the Houston Texans via trade this offseason, Cooks' No. 1 asset has always been his speed. That was on display during minicamp as he and Dak Prescott connected for a 60-yard touchdown.

But with Cooks' speed being what most focus on, Cowboys head coach and now offensive play-caller Mike McCarthy states that Cooks offers far more than just blistering speed.

"Not only his speed, but I think he's an exceptional route runner," McCarthy said. "He has a great understanding of the routes, time clocks, specifics, getting in and out of breaks, the 'action release' versus the 'vertical release.' I've been impressed; he's played in a different number of systems, and I just really like the detail of how he approaches his game."

Being a veteran who has seen his fair share of systems and defenses, Cooks comes to Dallas as the WR2 behind CeeDee Lamb, who took on the responsibility of leading the offense last season.

With Lamb, Cooks, and a healthier Michael Gallup in its ranks, Dallas has a "big three" that many in the league would envy. But McCarthy knows that despite Cooks being listed as a WR2, his skill set means he is still considered a WR1 inside the building.

"The biggest compliment you can give a receiver with his ability to go vertical is when a corner is in a press/bail technique, or he has free access, you still view him as a viable No. 1," McCarthy said. "That says something about Brandin; he's been a great fit for us. I'm really pleased, not only his physical skills but just the way he's come in here, and he's made that room so much better, made our offensive room better."

Cooks has already taken second-year receiver Jalen Tolbert under his wing, and his strides under the veteran's guidance have been noticeable. So, Cooks is more than just another "guy" in Dallas.

The Cowboy's offense ranked fourth for points scored last season (averaging 27.5 per), and under McCarthy, Dallas could again have one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL, maybe with two bonafide No. 1 receivers in Lamb and Cooks. ... and definitely with Cooks bringing more than "just speed.''

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