The Patriots need more receiver depth, and an intriguing option reportedly hit the open market on Wednesday.

Veteran wideout Brandin Cooks and the New Orleans Saints mutually agreed to part ways, according to NewOrleans.Football’s Nick Underhill. Cooks, who turned 32 in September, now is free to sign with any team.

So, should the Patriots reunite with Cooks, who racked up 1,082 yards and seven touchdowns for New England in 2017?

Well, it’s complicated.

Cooks obviously is on the back nine and surely will consider retirement this offseason. His production has declined in each of the last four campaigns, including just 259 yards last season for the Dallas Cowboys and 165 yards in 10 games this season for the Saints. While still fast and a savvy route-runner, Cooks no longer is a dangero

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