An Epochal Open Letter from Wide Receiver Brandin Cooks to the NFL and the Entire NFL Discussion Community
Date: December 14, 2024
Dear NFL Family,
As a wide receiver, I’ve always believed that my purpose goes beyond running routes and making catches. Football has given me a platform to connect with millions of fans, athletes, and communities worldwide. Today, I write this open letter not just as Brandin Cooks, the player, but as a fellow steward of the game we all cherish.
Over the years, I’ve witnessed and been part of moments that define the NFL—a league built on passion, resilience, and unity. Yet, with growth comes responsibility, and I feel it’s time for us to have a deeper, collective conversation about the league’s future.
Prioritizing Player Health and Longevity
Football is as much about grit as it is about grace. But the physical toll on players is undeniable. While strides have been made in concussion protocols and player safety, there’s still work to do. I urge the league and team owners to invest further in research and technologies that protect athletes during and after their careers. Let’s ensure every player can enjoy a quality life long after they’ve hung up their cleats.
Empowering Athletes Beyond the Field
Our careers are brief, but our impact doesn’t have to be. The NFL has done remarkable work with programs like the Player Engagement initiative, but we can go further. Let’s build stronger pipelines for athletes to transition into roles as entrepreneurs, educators, coaches, and community leaders. The NFL should be more than a game—it should be a launchpad for a lifetime of success.
Fostering Inclusivity in All Spaces
Football unites people from every walk of life, yet barriers remain—whether it’s in the front offices, coaching staffs, or broadcasting booths. Diversity is our strength. I call on the league to double down on initiatives like the Rooney Rule and ensure equitable representation across all levels. When everyone has a seat at the table, we create a game that truly reflects the world.
Engaging Fans with Transparency and Trust
Fans are the lifeblood of the NFL. Yet, controversies—whether about officiating, player conduct, or league policies—sometimes create rifts. We owe it to our supporters to communicate openly and rebuild trust when it falters. Let’s embrace accountability, not as a burden but as a standard of excellence.
Honoring Our Communities
The NFL’s impact stretches far beyond stadiums. From grassroots football programs to charitable foundations, the league has a unique ability to uplift communities. I urge every player, team, and executive to deepen their commitment to outreach. When we invest in youth and underserved populations, we’re not just growing the game—we’re shaping the future.
A Call to Action
This letter isn’t about assigning blame or pointing fingers. It’s about rallying together. As players, fans, analysts, and executives, we are all custodians of the NFL’s legacy. Let’s pledge to create a league that embodies integrity, excellence, and humanity in every aspect.
To the fans: thank you for your unwavering support, even in our toughest moments. To my fellow players: never forget the power you hold, both on and off the field. And to the league: the world is watching—let’s lead with vision and purpose.
Football is more than a game; it’s a unifying force. Together, we can ensure the NFL remains a source of inspiration for generations to come.
With gratitude and hope,
Brandin Cooks
Wide Receiver, NFL
This open letter sets a tone for reflection and action, inviting everyone involved in the NFL to join a meaningful dialogue about the league’s future.
