Texans Owe Deshaun Watson a Brandin Cooks Trade After Rams Made Him Available

The Houston Texans got rid of DeAndre Hopkins for next to nothing in a move that fans, analysts, and even players have criticized openly. Bill O'Brien, who reportedly had personal issues with Hopkins, pulled the trigger on the deal, and that decision has left quarterback Deshaun Watson with a lack of top-tier targets. Hopkins is arguably the best receiver in the league, and the team needs to replace him if they want to do right by their young quarterback and franchise star. Well, one potential replacement has just been made available via trade.

Star wideout Brandin Cooks is reportedly on the block as the Rams look to free up some cap space. With Hopkins headed to Glendale, Bill O'Brien would be wise to pursue a swap for Cooks to help mitigate the loss of Nuk.

Cooks is probably the best receiver currently available. Amari Cooper was locked down, Stefon Diggs was traded to Buffalo and A.J. Green had the franchise tag placed on him in Cincinnati. While former Jets WR Robby Anderson could be a suitable target, Cooks would present a much more valuable asset.

The 26-year-old had a down year in 2019, but prior to that had racked up four consecutive seasons with 1,000+ receiving yards. During that four-year span, Cooks scored 29 touchdowns and racked up 4,597 yards on 307 receptions.

The Texans are being pandered for their mismanagement of talent, but if they want to restore some faith from their fan base, a trade for Cooks would be a wise move.