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Lifelong Frog
TCU spring breakout candidates: RB Cam Cook can earn a prominent role in the offense
Ethan LoveTCU has always been a hotspot for running backs, and the last two seasons have been no exception with Kendre Miller getting drafted in the third round in 2023, and Emani Bailey poised for the NFL after his phenomenal 2023 campaign in Fort Worth.
But now it’s time for someone else to step up, and Cook should have his opportunity to impress this spring.
The first-year back only had 16 carries for 58 yards this past season, but with Bailey’s departure, he is bound to get more work in the offense this year. In front of him is Trey Sanders, the transfer from Alabama, but he has shown that he thrives in short-yardage situations and does not have the burst speed needed to be an every-down back, opening the door for Cook.
A four-star recruit from Stony Point in Round Rock, Cook was a beast in his final year of high school. He rushed for 1589 yards, averaging 158 yards per game and scoring 23 total touchdowns his senior season. At 5-10, 175 pounds he is a smaller RB in comparison to Cook, and should find success complimenting him in early downs and in the passing game.
Offensive coordinator Kendal Briles loved to use Bailey in the passing game last season, and Cook can excell in this role in his second season at TCU. Losing a dynamic playmaker like Bailey is going to hurt any offense. Trying to fill his shoes are going to be near-impossible, but last season after Miller left, Bailey rose to the occasion and became the next explosive TCU RB. Cook has a great opportunity to step up and be that next Miller or Bailey. New RB coach Jimmy Smith from Arkansas should also help Cook’s case, he has no attachment to any of these guys and should be unbiased. If Cook can ball out this spring and earn favor in Smith’s eyes, it could lead to a role on the offense come September.
More breakout candidates:
Tight end Drake DabneyQuarterback Hauss Hejny
