James Cook
If there is a running back that seems tailor-made to be a weapon in Andy Reid’s offense this year it is Georgia’s James Cook. While Cook doesn’t have the upside of being an every-down feature back, his big-play upside and ability to be a weapon in the passing game from various spots all over the field make him a logical target for the Chiefs. Dalvin Cook’s younger brother doesn’t have the physical stature to hold up to the same heavy workload, but that doesn’t mean he couldn’t be a dangerous weapon at the NFL level.
This quote from Lance Zierlein’s NFL.com scouting report gives a good description of Cook’s skill set:
"His slashing style fits with outside zone and toss plays. He can also be used as a mismatch option as a pass-catcher. Cook has big-play ability but is unlikely to see his carry count get very high."
I can see Cook being a younger and less injury-prone version of Jerick McKinnon early on in his career, but as he learns the playbook better I can see him being an even bigger part of the passing attack. The Chiefs could easily line up a more powerful back like Ronald Jones in the backfield and then line up Cook as a receiver on some downs. As KC looks to replace Tyreek Hill’s production by committee a weapon like Cook could be very useful. Check out a couple of his big plays in the clip in the tweet below including a couple where he lines up as an outside receiver.
https://twitter.com/TobyGrundy_/status/1509120971734757382
If you like the looks of that you can check out the KC Sports Network’s excellent highlight package HERE and dream about all the ways Andy Reid could use a weapon like that.
Next up is a back who might make a lot of sense for the Chiefs in the 4th round.