Brees is eager to see how New Orleans' offense evolves and figures first-round draft pick Brandin Cooks will play a significant part in that process.
"There's no doubt he's a guy who has the ability to be a big contributor for us on offense this year," Brees said.
It would be a mistake to view Cooks as a replacement for Sproles, Brees said, because they play different positions. Still, Brees sees similarities.
"They're both kind of smaller guys but extremely quick, versatile, matchup problems," Brees said.
"Then you lose a guy like Lance Moore who could play outside and inside," Brees continued. "Cooks is a guy who can play outside and inside, so maybe there's a correlation there. Again, you lose a versatile guy and you get a versatile guy."
Cooks took part in Saints rookie camp last weekend but then returned to Oregon State to finish out the school year. Brees won't get to work with him for another month or so.
The Saints spread the ball around, but not only do they have to replace the departed Lance Moore, the team has to also replace the production of Darren Sproles in the receiving game. The two combined for 143 targets in 2013, so while we're expecting Kenny Stills to see a larger role, there are targets for the speedy Cooks as well.
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