New Orleans Saints wide receiver Brandin Cooks broke his thumb in Sunday's loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, according to Mike Triplett of ESPN. Cooks has surgery on the thumb and is officially out four to six weeks, according to his agent, via Mike Garafolo of FOX Sports. Cooks didn't appear hurt during the game and didn't appear to leave for any length of time.
Brandin Cooks has broken thumb, could miss 4-6 weeks; fantasy replacement unclear
Brandin Cooks has a broken thumb and will miss some time. We break down the fantasy implications.
Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports
Whatever the case, Cooks is a big part of New Orlean's offense. He's caught 53 passes for 550 yards and three touchdowns this season, trailing only tight end Jimmy Graham in all three stats. He's emerged as an effective weapon opposite Marques Colston, who isn't far behind in the yardage department, with 536.
Fantasy Impact: If Cooks is unable to go, then Kenny Stills will likely be the biggest beneficiary from a fantasy standpoint. Unfortunately for fantasy owners, Stills is likely already owned in most leagues, and Drew Brees is known for spreading the ball around. In other words, it's not immediately clear who will step up into the Stills' role, or if that player will get enough looks to be worth a fantasy pickup. Replacing Cooks will be a tough task, for the Saints and fantasy owners.
