James Cook RB Georgia: Scouting Report

Height: 6’0’’

Weight: 204

Overall

James Cook is an elusive running back in Georgia’s balanced offense. In his 4 college seasons, he played in 50 games, but started only 6 of them. He played in a committee backfield where he split carries with Zamir White. He is an excellent athlete and has the vision and speed to make big plays in the NFL.

Run Game

Once he gets the handoff, Cook has excellent burst and vision to find the open running lane and get to the 2nd level. He is very light on his feet allowing him to quickly change direction and juke defenders at the line of scrimmage. One he gets into open space; he has home run hitting speed and can dodge defenders to gain extra yards. While Cook is very elusive, he has poor contact balance and often goes down after first contact. He does not have the strength and balance to be used in gap schemes or on short yardage plays between the tackles. His lack of tackle breaking ability is very concerning going into the NFL and will likely result in him being used as a change of pace back.

Pass Game

Cook was often used as a receiver while in college and he has the receiving skills to be a strong option in the pass game moving forward. He has very good route running abilities with his quick feet, and he showed very good hands-on film. After the catch, Cook continues to show off his burst and elusiveness to get up field and gain extra yards. As a pass blocker, he shows good effort, but he does not show enough on film for him to be relied on in pass protection in the pros.

Last Word

James Cook projects best in a zone run scheme where he can use his elite vision and burst to find the open running lane and make big plays. With his receiving ability, he can be used on 3rd downs and create mismatches against linebackers. His athleticism can allow him to play on special teams too and he can potentially be used in the return game.

One-Liner: James Cook is an excellent playmaker with elite vision, but his lack of contact balance will force him to be used in a rotational role in the NFL.

Grade: 6.3 (Role Playing Starter, 3rd Down)

Games Watched: 2021 – Tennessee, Clemson, Alabama, Florida, Charleston Southern

Team Fits: Detroit Lions, Arizona Cardinals, New York Giants