6 Cowboys Whose Stock Has Fallen Ahead of Training Camp

3. Brandin Cooks, Wide Receiver

As is often the case, the Jones family didn't do much in free agency during the 2023 offseason. They turned things around, however, when they pulled off two solid trades. For a collection of Day 3 picks, they brought in cornerback Stephon Gilmore in a deal with the Indianapolis Colts and wide receiver Brandin Cooks in a trade with the Houston Texans.

Gilmore had just one year left on his deal and wasn't re-signed. Thankfully, Cooks had two years left, so he will be back in 2024. With the release of Michael Gallup and the lack of additions, Cooks is going to be a key piece of the passing attack once again.

That might have sounded more encouraging last year than it does now.

Cooks is a well-traveled wideout who has had success wherever he's played. Dallas is the fifth team he's suited up for and he's put up at least one 1,000-yard campaign for each of those teams — except the Cowboys.

As the No. 2 receiver in 2023, Cooks had 54 receptions for 657 yards and eight touchdowns. He performed better as the season went on but this was the second year in a row he was held under 700 yards receiving. He will turn 31 in September, which could be a factor.

In the end, the issue might have been Dak Prescott's desire to force-feed Michael Gallup. Once he had his snaps reduced, Cooks took off. There's plenty of reason to believe he will perform better throughout the season in 2024 but the stock isn't as high as it was when he was added.