One of Jared Cook’s favorite plays of his career was catching a 36-yard pass from a scrambling Aaron Rodgers near the sideline to set up the winning field goal in a 2017 playoff game against the Dallas Cowboys.
“Definitely a memorable play,” the former Green Bay Packer said Monday.
Cook is entering his 13th season and turns 34 next month, but the veteran tight end said he’s not done making acrobatic catches. He’s already envisioning big plays in crucial moments with the Chargers and quarterback Justin Herbert, the reigning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year.
Cook officially joined the Chargers on Monday after signing his contract, which is reportedly for one year with $4.5 million guaranteed.
“That’s what the game is about,” Cook said about creating memorable moments with Herbert. “It’s about making those big-time plays.
“He can sling the ball, man. He came on last year unexpectedly when nobody was expecting him to be a starter and I think he did a really good job at that.”
But Herbert wasn’t the only reason why Cook joined the Chargers. The two-time Pro Bowl tight end is familiar with offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi and considers offensive line coach Frank Smith a good friend.
Cook had one of his best seasons in 2018 with the Raiders when Smith was the tight ends coach at the time. Cook recorded 68 receptions for 896 yards, six touchdowns and was named a Pro Bowler during his lone season with Smith. But Smith and Cook have kept in contact and texted often during free agency.
Smith recruited Cook and Lombardi provided familiarity. Cook spent the past two seasons playing for the New Orleans Saints, where Lombardi was the quarterbacks coach before joining the Chargers this year.
“I mostly talked with Frank Smith, but I know what Joe brings to the table,” said Cook, who is joining his sixth NFL team. “He’s a grinder. Joe will stay up until 4 or 5 in the morning making sure that your offense is ready to go week in and week out and he puts in the time and he puts in the effort and I’ve seen it first hand.
“To be a part of that the past two years, really kinda made the decision easy. (Lombardi) was a big part of our success with the Saints – a huge part.”
Cook wants to be a mentor to the younger players and learn from the skill players, such as wide receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams. Cook has played with star wideouts Michael Thomas of the Saints and Davante Adams with the Packers, but the veteran tight end said the Chargers’ wide receivers are just as dynamic.
But Cook wants to do more than just be a leader. He sees a bright future for the Chargers’ offense.
“A chance to help young players,” Cook said for reasons why he joined the Chargers. “Also, a chance to be able to open up the offense a little bit more, spread the field, get on safeties and linebackers, exploit the mismatches when you’re getting them and being able to score touchdowns and move the ball.”
ODAY READY TO ASSIST
Oday Aboushi was the third offensive lineman the Chargers added last week.
He’s unsure if he’ll get to start next to fellow newcomers Corey Linsley and Matt Feiler, but the offensive guard is ready to provide versatility and toughness the same way he did for the Detroit Lions and quarterback Matthew Stafford the past two seasons.
“The opportunity,” Aboushi said of why he decided to join the Chargers. “Justin (Herbert) is balling. He had a great rookie season. He’s building something special here. L.A. is a great place to be. Overall, I feel like the situation moving forward with the Chargers is something that’s going to be great. It’s going to be something that a lot of people are going to be proud of.”
Aboushi also made his arrival official Monday when he signed his contract, which is reportedly for one season and worth $1.75 million.
TEVI JOINS COLTS
Former Chargers left tackle Sam Tevi is reportedly joining the Indianapolis Colts.
Tevi appeared in 58 games and started 44 in four seasons with the Chargers.
The #Colts are signing former #Chargers left tackle Sam Tevi, per source. A chance to protect Carson Wentz’s blindside.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 23, 2021
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