In May 1960, Lions coach George Wilson touted Cogdill as "one of the top receivers to come into professional football in a long time." As a rookie in 1960, he appeared in all 12 games for the Lions at the split end position and caught 43 passes for 642 yards. He was selected by both the United Press International and "The Sporting News" for the NFL Rookie of the Year Award. He was also selected to play in the 1961 Pro Bowl.