2022 NFL Draft: Breece Hall Leads Preseason RB Rankings

10. James Cook, Georgia

If the readers were expecting a Georgia running back on the rankings, it’s likely most (if not all) expected to see Zamir White here rather than James Cook. But, Cook is an exciting player who will hopefully get more opportunities to showcase his talents this fall for the Bulldogs, especially since he averages 6.6 yards per carry and over 11 yards per reception. Also, yes, his brother is indeed Dalvin Cook, if everyone was wondering.

Cook is extremely dynamic and it shows up immediately in his game. He has impressive footwork and lateral agility, often looking super light on his feet. He’s incredibly efficient when changing direction and has great explosion off of his plant foot. Cook has very good burst and acceleration, and is extremely difficult to tackle in open space. He’s also got very good receiving chops, creating separation with ease on angle routes and in/out routes out of the backfield, leaving defenders in the dust.

His long speed isn’t the best, and his size will bring about questions to be a three down back without adding some weight to his frame. However, if there was a running back in the 2022 NFL Draft with limitless upside and the chance to make a meteoric rise, James Cook is that guy.

Grade: 3rd/4th Round (90-120)

Honorable Mentions: Sincere McCormick (UTSA), Cam’Ron Harris (Miami), Kennedy Brooks (Oklahoma), CJ Verdell (Oregon), Max Borghi (Washington State)