Cook ready for 'big production year' with Saints

Jared Cook is coming off the most productive season of his career, and the soon-to-be New Orleans Saints tight end sees more big numbers in his future.

A deal hasn't been finalized, but Cook acknowledged Friday he intends to sign with the defending NFC South champions and play alongside future Hall of Fame quarterback Drew Brees in the Saints' explosive offense.

"I've been a big fan of Drew for a long time and the way he approaches the game," he said, according to ESPN's Mike Triplett. "He's on point. He's on top of his game right now. He's just a baller. I look forward to seeing him do great things in the future."

Cook is coming off two solid campaigns with the Oakland Raiders, including last year when he registered a career-high 896 receiving yards and six touchdowns. He's expected to finalize a contract with the Saints in the near future.

"It could be a big production year," Cook said. "Just as long as I take care of what I can take care of, we should be all right."

The Saints have struggled to get consistent production out of their tight ends in recent seasons after featuring a dominant Jimmy Graham in the role from 2010 to 2014.