Patriots gridiron news: Brandin Cooks addresses underwhelming start with team

FOXBORO, MA - SEPTEMBER 07: Brandin Cooks
FOXBORO, MA - SEPTEMBER 07: Brandin Cooks /
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New wide receiver Brandin Cooks says he is “disappointed” in the way he has begun his career with the New England Patriots.

New England Patriots wide receiver Brandin Cooks has not been the explosive playmaker we all expected headed into the season.  With an underwhelming performance in the first two games, the 23-year-old receiver plans to keep working to get on the same page as Tom Brady.

"“One practice at a time, like it was today (Thursday).  One play at a time,” Cooks said, via WBZ.  “Continuing to just come on, and getting on the same page as fast as possible, is big.”"

With just 125 total yards receiving in the first two games, Cooks has not lived up to the hype.  Perhaps he is under a much bigger microscope due to the injuries the wide receiver group has endured, still he knows he has to find a way to make more big plays in the offense.  Just like the 53-yard bomb he caught in the Week 1 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs.

"“Last week we won, that’s all that matters,” Cooks said referencing his performance against the New Orleans Saints.  “The week before, I look at plays that I could have made to help the team and put us in a better position to win.  So in that aspect, I’m disappointed in myself.  But that’s what work is all about, coming back and getting better every single day.”"

New England Patriots
New England Patriots /

Despite the low numbers, Bradin Cooks has still received praise from both Bill Belichick and Tom Brady.  They both like what they see in Cooks, which is the more encouraging factor.

So, maybe all it takes is a little patience.  He has the right attitude and definitely has the talent to succeed in the Patriots’ offense.  Heading into Week 3, Brandin Cooks may be one breakout game away from really breaking lose.

Let’s hope it happens sooner, rather than later.

The Rob Gronkowski game

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 Will Rob Gronkowski play on Sunday?

Well, we may have to wait till hours before the game against the Texans to find out.  After being listed as a non-participant at practice on Wednesday, he was listed as limited at Thursday’s practice.

While Gronkowski said the groin injury he suffered against the New Orleans Saints last week was not serious, it appears the team is still being very cautious with the big tight end.

His limited participation could also be a decoy to give the Texans something to think about.  Either way, it will be beneficial for the team to have Gronkowski on the field Sunday.  Not only could he help in the passing game, he can also be monumental in the blocking game.

Marcus Cannon

Speaking of the blocking game, right tackle Marcus Cannon was back at practice Thursday.

Next: New England Patriots offensive line has to step up in week 3

The offensive lineman sat out practice on Wednesday due to a concussion and ankle injury.  His availability on Sunday is highly important considering the Texans’ pass rush.  If he is unable to go, Cam Fleming would have to step in and fill the void.