Former NFL running back, long-time scout Reggie Cobb dead at 50
Former NFL running back Reggie Cobb, who also worked as a scout in the league for a long time, has passed away at the age of 50.
Reggie Cobb, a former NFL running back and scout, died Saturday morning in California at the age of 50. His cause of death was not immediately given, but at least one report pointed to a suspected heart attack.
Cobb was a second-round draft pick in 1990 out of Tennessee by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He finished his career as the third-leading rusher in Tennessee history (2,360 yards), and still owns the 10th best rushing season in school history (1,197 yards).
He also led the SEC in rushing touchdowns (17) as a freshman during that same season (1987).
Cobb spent the first four of his seven NFL seasons with the Buccaneers, highlighted by 1,171 yards (seventh in the league) and nine touchdowns (tied fifth in the league) in 1992.
He would go on to play one season each with the Green Bay Packers (1994), Jacksonville Jaguars (1995) and New York Jets (1996).
After his playing career ended, Cobb moved into scouting in 2001. He worked for the Washington Redskins for two years, before working six years for the Buccaneers and landing with the San Francisco 49ers in 2009.
In 2011, he was named NFC Scout of the Year by the Fritz Pollard Alliance.
The 49ers’ general manager John Lynch released a statement on Cobb’s passing.
"We are devastated by the sudden loss of a tremendous teammate and loyal friend, Reggie Cobb. Reggie was an enthusiastic and passionate person who had a special ability to brighten up a room with his personality and infectious smile.“For 10 years, the 49ers were better because of Reggie and these unique qualities that he possessed. He was a top-notch scout and an exemplary man whose years of service to this organization and the National Football League will not be forgotten.“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends in this time of mourning."
We’re saddened to hear of the passing of former running back Reggie Cobb. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Cobb family. pic.twitter.com/rSlRpg2mAd
— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) April 20, 2019
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According to his 49ers’ bio Cobb lived with his son in Sugarland, Texas. But he was presumably in the Bay Area delivering his final evaluations of players heading into next week’s draft, and set to be in San Francisco’s war room.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to his loved ones, colleagues, friends and former teammates.