Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Tarik Cohen (North Carolina A&T) - 2017 NFL Draft Pick #119 by CHI

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Tarik Cohen (2017 NFL Draft)

College: North Carolina A&T
Position: Running Back

Overview:

Tarik Cohen was a standout player at North Carolina A&T, known for his explosive speed and versatility on the field. Standing at 5'6" and weighing around 179 pounds, Cohen was often considered undersized for a traditional running back, but his skills made him a compelling prospect heading into the 2017 NFL Draft.

Strengths:

• Speed and Agility: Cohen possesses elite acceleration and quickness, allowing him to evade defenders and breakaway for long runs.
• Pass-Catching Ability: He demonstrated reliable hands and the ability to run precise routes, making him a valuable asset in the passing game.
• Elusiveness: His low center of gravity and agility enable him to make sharp cuts and avoid tackles effectively.
• Work Ethic: Cohen showed a strong commitment to improving his game and was noted for his preparation and practice habits.

Weaknesses:

• Size: At 5'6", he lacks the prototypical size for an NFL running back, which raises concerns about durability and ability to handle a heavy workload.
• Blocking: He may struggle in pass protection against larger defenders, which could limit his playing time on third downs.
• Competition Level: Playing at a smaller school like North Carolina A&T raised questions about how his skills would translate to the NFL.

Projected Role:

Cohen was projected to be a change-of-pace back in the NFL, capable of contributing in both the running and passing games. His ability to perform as a dynamic playmaker could make him a valuable asset for teams looking for versatility in their offensive schemes.

Conclusion:

Despite his size, Tarik Cohen's unique skill set and explosive playmaking ability made him an intriguing prospect for the 2017 NFL Draft. Teams looking for a versatile running back with the potential to impact both the ground game and the passing game considered him a worthwhile selection.