New York Giants: Five Reasons To Select Dalvin Cook In 2017 NFL Draft

5. Physical Profile

Dalvin Cook has been criticized for not playing with enough patience when running between the tackles and blocking. He has no trouble breaking through the line of scrimmage and picking up positive yardage, but some fear he’s too inclined to run outside.

The one thing that has never been questioned, however, is whether or not the former Florida State star has the physical tools to be an impact player.

Cook is a 5’10” and 210-pound running back with a chiseled frame and the unique ability to blend power with speed. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.49 seconds at the 2017 NFL Draft Combine, which ranked No. 7 amongst running backs in this draft class.

For perspective, the 5’11”, 202-pound, and less bulky Christian McCaffrey ran the 40-yard dash in 4.48 seconds—just 0.01 seconds faster than Cook.

Cook does an outstanding job of pacing himself outside the tackles and remaining elusive before he breaks out his game speed. He’s one of the most agile players in this draft class, as evidenced by his flawless footwork and general ability to avoid contact.

Whether it’s a foot race to the end zone or a head-on collision with a safety, Cook can be trusted to win more than he loses. The New York Giants need that type of running back.