RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI

Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

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

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

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.