In an interview with NFL.com writer Bryan Fischer, Oregon State wide receiver Brandin Cooks revealed that he will be meeting with the Carolina Panthers in Charlotte this week for a private workout. Cooks is the first confirmed wide receiver the Panthers will be privately working out, and given their massive need at the position, it’s safe to say that he will certainly not be the last.
Cooks is an intriguing prospect. Despite his smaller build at 5-foot-10 inches and 189 pounds, he is incredibly athletic, as he recorded a 4.33 40-yard dash at the Combine, in addition to his 3.81 20-yard shuttle, and 10.72 60-yard shuttle times, which were both Combine bests.
His athleticism definitely shows up on film as well. As Greg Cosell notes:
"For most people (Cooks) might be seen as a slot receiver but I think he has the ability to be a movement wide receiver in a multiple-formation pass game just like that of Chip Kelly’s. This kid is an instant accelerator. He goes from zero-to-sixty in a heartbeat, he's got start and stop explosion, he's got deceptive speed on vertical routes, he's got make-you-miss quickness and change of direction."
Cooks is currently being projected as a late first or early second round draft pick. He has already worked out for the New England Patriots, and the Philadelphia Eagles are also reported to be heavily interested in Cooks as a possible replacement for DeSean Jackson.