Should the 49ers consider Cam Cook next offseason?
West Virginia running back Cam Cook is a premier player in the nation, combining elite short-area quickness, elusiveness in open space, and superb vision that make him a compelling prospect in the 2027 NFL Draft. He’s a potential option for the San Francisco 49ers and is someone fans must know heading into the season.
Before we begin, it’s important to understand the goal of summer scouting. This article isn’t meant to be a finalized scouting report on Cam Cook or a declaration that the 49ers must draft him. It’s way too early for that, as plenty will change during the season. Instead, it’s intended to identify him as a talented player to watch throughout the year who could resurface next April. Keep that in mind throughout the report.
Cook, the five-foot-nine, 200-pound senior, spent two seasons at TCU before transferring to Jacksonville State. He burst onto the national scene with the Gamecocks, leading the nation with 1,650 rushing yards, also adding 16 touchdowns. Now, he once again entered the portal and landed with West Virginia, where he can showcase his abilities on a larger scale.
Cook’s A-list skill is his unparalleled suddenness and quickness. He rapidly accelerates and can throttle down instantly, making less athletic defenders look silly. Additionally, he’s nearly impossible to bring down, forcing 101 missed tackles last year. He won’t run through a defender, but he has a full package of evasive maneuvers, including various jukes and spins, that keep his competition guessing.
Despite this, Cook’s productivity stems from his prowess behind the line of scrimmage. He’s patient with the ball, allowing his blocks to set up. He surveys the entire field and uses his aforementioned acceleration to explode through the lane at full speed. This makes it difficult for defenders to keep up and tackle him before he’s 5+ yards downfield.
His main task in 2026 is to showcase this ability on a bigger stage. Cook proved that he can dominate in the Conference USA; however, the Big 12 is a different beast. He must show scouts that his athleticism translates and that he won’t get caught by more athletic defenders. This is the difference from him being a second-round or seventh-round pick.
Cook’s skill set, plus the 49ers’ need at running back, makes the two an intriguing pairing. Christian McCaffrey won’t be around forever, as he’s 30 years old, so Kyle Shanahan needs to find his successor. They have young backups in 2025 third-round pick Kaelon Black, second-year player Jordan James, and 2024 draftee Isaac Guerendo. However, all have little production, and the 49ers could opt for another option next offseason.
If they do, don’t be shocked to hear Cam Cook’s name floating around. His elite suddenness, evasiveness, and vision create an explosive running back who could skyrocket up draft boards with another productive season.
