The 2017 NFL Draft features a deep class of running backs, but also some debate about who is at the top. LSU’s Leonard Fournette is regularly listed as the first running back off the board in mock drafts, but some believe Florida State’s Dalvin Cook is the better option.
The 49ers are doing their due diligence up top, with Matt Maiocco reporting the team hosted Cook on an official visit. The 49ers previously met with Cook at the NFL Combine, where they also met with Tennessee’s Alvin Kamara and Toledo’s Kareem Hunt.
There is no doubting Cook’s talent. He surpassed 1,000 yards rushing each of his three seasons at Florida State, rushing for a total of 4,464 yards in three seasons. He averaged 6.5 yards per carry and rushed for 46 touchdowns. He made contributions in the passing game as well, averaging 26 receptions and 311 receiving yards over his three seasons. Scouts love his balance and burst, although there are some questions about him as a between-the-tackles runner.
The bigger issue though is his off-field problems. He was arrested in 2009 for robbery and 2010 for firing and possessing a weapon on school property. In both instances the charges were dropped. In 2014, he was charged with criminal mischief after he and other players allegedly shot bb-guns and caused property damage. He was given pre-trial interview, according to one report.
Cook previously was charged with criminal mischief in Tallahassee following an incident in June 2014. He was one of several players involved in an alleged bb-gun shooting that caused property damage that exceeded $200 and was less than $1,000. Cook was charged with criminal mischief and given pre-trial intervention in December, which he completed last month, according to Fox Sports. In July 2014, he was cited for violating an animal care ordinance.
In 2015, he was arrested and charged with misdemeanor battery after a victim alleged he punched her several times in the face. He was found not guilty after a trial. Florida State suspended Cook that June following the arrest, but reinstated him in August after the not guilty verdict.
It is safe to say the 49ers have asked him about these various incidents.