Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Kerry Cooks (Iowa) - 1998 NFL Draft Pick #144 by MIN

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Kerry Cooks (1998 NFL Draft)

College: University of Iowa

Kerry Cooks was a highly regarded defensive back coming out of the University of Iowa in the 1998 NFL Draft. His college career showcased his skills as a versatile player capable of making significant contributions in the secondary.

Strengths:

• Coverage Ability: Cooks exhibited strong man-to-man coverage skills, demonstrating the ability to stay with receivers and limit big plays.
• Ball Skills: He was known for his keen ability to track the ball and make plays on it, evidenced by his interception totals during his college career.
• Physicality: Cooks was not afraid to come up and support the run, showcasing toughness and willingness to tackle.
• Intelligence: His understanding of defensive schemes allowed him to read plays effectively and position himself to make key plays.

Weaknesses:

• Size: At 5'11" and around 190 pounds, some scouts questioned whether he had the size to match up against taller NFL receivers.
• Injury History: Cooks had a few injuries during his college career that raised concerns about his durability at the professional level.
• Consistency: While he had strong performances, there were games where he struggled, leading to questions about his ability to perform at a high level consistently.

Overall Projection:

Kerry Cooks was projected as a mid-round selection in the 1998 NFL Draft. His combination of athleticism, coverage skills, and football IQ made him an appealing prospect for teams looking to bolster their secondary. His performance at college and potential for development were key factors that could lead to a successful NFL career.