Brandin Cooks, the Dallas Cowboys star, has announced his retirement at the age of 31, marking the end of an impressive NFL career spanning over a decade.

Born on September 25, 1993, in Stockton, California, Cooks became known for his speed and exceptional catching ability, establishing himself as one of the league’s top wide receivers.

After a standout college career at Oregon State University, where he won the prestigious Biletnikoff Award for the nation’s best wide receiver, Cooks was selected in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints. During his three seasons with the Saints, he recorded over 2,800 receiving yards and 20 touchdowns, solidifying his reputation as a premier offensive threat.

Cooks went on to play for the New England Patriots, Los Angeles Rams, Houston Texans, and finally, the Dallas Cowboys. He achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the first player in NFL history to record at least 1,000 receiving yards with four different teams. However, in the 2024 season, he faced a knee injury that sidelined him for seven games, limiting his season totals to just 259 receiving yards and three touchdowns over ten games.

Cooks’ decision to retire follows a challenging season and speculation about his future with the Cowboys. While there were suggestions that he might follow coach Mike McCarthy to his next team, Cooks ultimately chose to step away from professional football.

Throughout his career, Cooks was known not only for his on-field contributions but also for his leadership and mentorship of younger players. He played a crucial role in guiding and supporting his teammates, leaving a lasting impact in the locker room and on the practice field.

Brandin Cooks finishes his career with an impressive 707 receptions, 9,517 receiving yards, and 60 touchdowns. His legacy will be remembered as one of the most dynamic and consistent wide receivers of his generation