The Facts: There was "mutual" enthusiasm when Cook and Aaron Rodgers had their first conversation as teammates, but the new Packers tight end knew his place. He is the reason for excitement this offseason, a potential savior for what had been the Packers most neglected position. He is not the league's two-time MVP. "I think I was more excited than he was," Cook said, "just to be able to play with somebody that's so great at what he does, and somebody that's proven. … It was more than the top priority I was looking for. It was imperative that I find a person that's known for getting the job done, and is good at what they do. I think that he's probably one of the best in the league at doing it, clearly."
Diehards Line:
While the Packers had an obvious attraction to Cook — he’s a fast tight end, something they haven’t had on their roster for three years — the eighth-year veteran had reason to be even more drawn to Green Bay. Rodgers will be the 12th quarterback to throw Cook a pass in the NFL. Before him, the best probably was Matt Hasselbeck. Last year was a low point, however, with Nick Foles and Case Keenum splitting time as the Rams' starter. It’s no surprise Cook’s production dipped in 2015, given their struggles. Cook had 39 catches after surpassing 50 in each of his first two seasons in St. Louis. He had 481 yards after receiving more than 600 in his first two years. Across the board, the Rams offense was dreadful. They finished 29th in scoring. Last in yards. Last in passing. So Cook arrives in Green Bay with a sense of urgency, facing a crossroads in his career. Working with Rodgers clearly gives Cook an edge in getting back on track.