By Staff Writer — December 8, 2025
Brady Cook’s long-awaited NFL debut with the New York Jets was supposed to be a moment of celebration for the former Missouri Tigers star. Instead, it became a harsh reminder of just how brutal life in the NFL can be — a reality the young quarterback admitted had him briefly considering a return to Columbia for one more year before taking the leap to the pros.
Cook, who spent most of the season as the Jets’ third-string quarterback, was thrown into action during Sunday’s 34–10 loss to the Miami Dolphins. With Justin Fields sidelined and Tyrod Taylor injured mid-game, Cook stepped onto the turf at MetLife Stadium in conditions far colder and far less forgiving than any moment he faced at Mizzou.
When he took the podium after the game, his voice carried both honesty and exhaustion.
“Playing in the NFL isn’t just some minor years of training,” Cook said. “It’s a different world — faster, tougher, and way more demanding. I felt ready, but I didn’t do enough to get a win today.”
The former Tigers captain completed 14 of 30 passes for 163 yards, threw two interceptions, and endured six and a half sacks from Miami’s relentless pass rush. It was a brutal debut by any measure, one that would rattle even a seasoned veteran — let alone a rookie thrown into the fire with little warning.
But it was Cook’s reflection on his decision to leave Missouri early that raised eyebrows.
He revealed that during the offseason, he strongly considered returning to Missouri for one more year, hoping to sharpen his development before entering the NFL. Ultimately, he chose to move forward, believing he was ready for the challenge — a choice he now acknowledges came with difficult consequences.
“Yeah, I thought about staying another year,” Cook admitted. “Missouri meant everything to me, and part of me wanted one more season before making this step. But once you choose the NFL, there’s no looking back. You learn fast out here — or you get exposed fast.”
Despite the rough start, Cook’s determination hasn’t faded.
“Whether I’m the starter, backup, or third-string — I’ll be ready,” he said. “I’ll watch the tape, make corrections, and get right. I’ve been doubted before. I’ll fight through this.”
For Missouri fans, the idea that Cook almost returned adds a layer of nostalgia to a week already buzzing with Mizzou sports storylines — from basketball’s Border War showdown to the Tigers’ upcoming appearance in the Gator Bowl.
And for Jets fans, Cook’s honesty offers a glimpse into the mindset of a competitor who isn’t afraid to admit the challenges of the pro game… and isn’t afraid to rise above them.
If Cook gets another opportunity this season will depend on the health of Fields and Taylor. But one thing is certain:
Brady Cook is learning quickly that the NFL doesn’t hand out grace — only opportunities. And he intends to be ready for the next one.
