Rookie Scouting Profile: RB James Cook

James Cook (RB) Georgia

Height	Weight	40-Time	DOB	NFL Draft	Dynasty ADP	NFL Comp
5-11	199	4.42	09/25/1999	3-4	2.11	Gio Bernard

College Production

James is the brother of Minnesota Vikings’ star Dalvin Cook and was a superstar in high school coming out of Miami. He saw a limited role in his first three seasons, however, he never failed to top six yards per carry in any season. In 2021, he got his chance to shine on his way to a National Championship. He saw 113 carries which he took for 728 yards and seven TDs. Through the air, he tacked on an additional 27 receptions for 284 yards and four TDs.

Strengths

Incredible athlete.
Versatility to play in the slot.
Big play ability.
Impressive hands and route runner.
Great acceleration.
Very fast.
Quick feet.
Excellent lateral quickness.
Can run between the tackles, but outstanding running to the outside.

Weaknesses

Non-elite vision.
Lacks ideal size.
Poor pass blocker.
May be viewed as a third-down back in the NFL.
At times goes down easier than needed behind or at the line.
Doesn’t finish off defenders strong.

Fantasy Outlook

Cook has the skillset to be a three-down back but may lack the size. However, he fits well in today’s NFL when teams like to rotate backs. He may be a bit volatile though as he offers plenty of PPR value and big-play ability while showing very little ability on short-yardage or the goal line. He should be viewed as a boom-or-bust prospect and there is a good chance that’s the case week to week throughout his career.

While he is a bit undersized, it would be nice to see him earn a larger role. The most likely spot for that to happen might be in Houston. They desperately need playmakers and his pass-catching ability would make him a nice outlet for Davis Mills. Granted it’s hard to picture Houston being an ideal landing spot for anyone, nonetheless, a borderline Day 2 pick with early-down questions fits the mold. There is no better situation for fantasy owners right out of the gates. No matter where he lands he will have a role as a pass-catcher.

On The Clock

Cook’s game fits well with today’s NFL and he should be able to carve out a useful role. However, he’s unlikely to be more than a situational pass catcher, so we’d rather target Jerome Ford or Kyren Williams in the second round of rookie drafts.