Los Angeles Chargers sign TE Jared Cook: Fantasy football fallout for 2021

It didn’t take long for the Chargers to replace Hunter Henry as they announced they’ve signed Jared Cook to a one-year deal worth $6 million, with $4.5 million guaranteed. Cook spent the past two seasons with the Saints where he caught 80 passes for a total of 1,209 yards with 16 touchdowns throughout both years. The Chargers are looking to use Cook as a short-term replacement for Henry while they work out the future of their TE position.

TE Jared Cook signing: Fantasy football impact

Cook will be coming into the Chargers with some chemistry with offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi, who was the quarterbacks coach in New Orleans while Cook was with the Saints. He should fit right in with LA’s offense as Lombardi’s playbook is likely something he’s already familiar with.

While Cook isn’t exactly a like-for-like replacement for Hunter Henry, the 33-year-old comes into the spot well-equipped and has a ton of experience, having been active in the NFL since 2009. He’s not going to be quite as fast as Henry, but he’ll be stretching the field and will most likely put up some decent numbers if starting QB Justin Herbert sends a good amount of targets his way.

Cook made 37 catches for 504 yards last season while bringing in seen touchdowns throughout 15 games with the Saints. Donald Parham will be the only other viable TE on the roster, but the Chargers are expected to draft another option in the upcoming draft. Cook will bring a mentor mentality into the locker room, paving the way for the younger guys going forward while he strives to make his mark in Los Angeles.