The LA Chargers biggest injury risks of the 2021 season

3. Jared Cook

The LA Chargers signed Jared Cook to be a one-year veteran option after Hunter Henry signed a hefty contract with the New England Patriots. The Bolts wound up drafting Tre’ McKitty in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft and it is safe to say that McKitty is raw, especially as a route-runner compared to NFL standards.

Personally, I did not love the Cook move at the time as there were better options available. Gerald Everett is much younger and signed for virtually the same amount in the offseason. Sure, Cook is more accomplished, but the Chargers should be paying for 2021 production, not past production.

I just do not think Cook is going to be that great in 2021. He has regressed in each of the last three years and is not getting any younger. Players regress quickly, Charger fans should know that, and it is hard to be comfortable with a 34-year-old pass-catcher.

Not only is Cook primed to regress but the injuries are going to be more likely as well. Cook had a reduced workload last season that was reduced from an already reduced workload in 2019. If he is going to stay healthy he is going to have to be limited.

It could be a blessing in disguise, though. This would give a chance to the young tight ends on the roster to prove what they truly have.