David Cobb, RB Minnesota

Height: 5’10 5/8″
Weight: 229

40 yard dash: 4.58 (projected)

NFL Comparison: Jeremy Hill

Scouting Notes:

Cobb started out as one of the more unheralded backs coming into the draft this year, but he’s quickly picking up steam on draft boards, much like he does on the field. The Minnesota prospect started out his college career inauspiciously, receiving minimal carries in his first two seasons. Things got heavy his junior year though, and before you know it, Cobb was one of the Big 10’s most consistent backs. He’s a north-and-south runner, but Cobb has terrific lateral agility and vision that will help him succeed at the next level. Cobb is also incredibly tough to take down due to his huge, churning thighs that are ever moving forward. He’s also evasive for a big back, which is nice because he doesn’t have great burst or speed. Cobb can catch the ball too, but he’s average at best at pass protecting. Cobb was selected by RosterWatch as the starting RB on its 2015 All-Senior Bowl Roster, and was the most complete back of all in attendance during the week of practices in Mobile, Al.

Fantasy Outlook:

Cobb’s less-than-phenomenal measurables (outside of his size) put him at the back of the pack with the “elite” runners in the draft, but he’s going to be a steal. Watching his tape, it’s easy to see his efficient style lacks sizzle but is extremely productive. His tree-trunk thighs and between-the-tackles wiggle remind me of Jeremy Hill, one of the stars of last year’s draft class, though Cobb isn’t quite as dynamic in the passing game. I see Cobb getting drafted in the 3rd round and becoming quickly acclimated to the NFL game, depending on his ability to better his blocking skills. On a ground-game starved team like Tennessee or San Diego, he could quickly become the bell-cow back as early as year one.