Report: Versatile Georgia Running Back Visiting Patriots

The New England Patriots didn’t spend too much money this offseason because they didn’t have the money. DeVante Parker’s trade was the only move the Patriots made so far. They had a few players over for a visit. Add Georgia running back James Cook to this list because he is coming to New England for a pre-draft visit.

Tony Pauline from Pro Football Network believes that a NFL team will select Cook in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Other analysts say he is a Day 3 selection. NESN’s latest mock draft suggests that Cook will find his next home in Round 5.

“James White re-signed this offseason, but he’s coming off major hip surgery, and his understudy, Brandon Bolden, now is in Las Vegas. While there’s a chance J.J. Taylor could take on additional receiving duties in his third pro season, the Patriots’ backfield doesn’t have much proven pass-catching depth behind White.

Cook might not be the game-changer that his sturdier older brother, Dalvin, is for the Minnesota Vikings, but his passing-game prowess makes him an intriguing target for the Patriots. He dropped just one pass in 68 catchable targets at Georgia, per PFF, and his evasiveness makes him a tough cover.”

Versatile running back could add depth to the Patriots unit

In his final season at Georgia, Cook stacked 27 passes for 284 yards and four touchdowns while rushing for 728 yards and seven touchdowns. He also led the national champions in yards from scrimmage.

Scouting reports discussed Cook’s measures. He is a 5-foot-11 running back who weighs 199 pounds. He is incredibly versatile and his speed can help him become a lethal running back.

“Although he will be limited as an inside runner, he has legitimate versatility to flex out wide and run routes as a pass-catcher,” The Athletic’s Dane Brugler wrote in his 2022 draft guide. “Overall, Cook doesn’t have the contact balance or build of a full-time ball carrier like his older brother, but he can be a dynamic, versatile threat with his pass-catching skills and balanced athleticism to gravitate toward space.”

The Patriots have a clear plan and a lot of opportunities to play with.