Former NFL running back Reggie Cobb dies at age 50

Arthur Weinstein

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Former NFL running back Reggie Cobb dies at age 50 image

Former NFL running back Reggie Cobb died Friday at age 50 of a heart attack, according to multiple reports.

Selected by the Buccaneers in the second round (No. 30 overall) out of Tennessee in the 1990 NFL Draft, Cobb started 47 games over the next four seasons for Tampa Bay. His best season came in 1992, when he rushed for 1,171 yards and scored nine TDs with the Buccaneers.

Cobb completed his seven-year career with single-season stints with the Packers, Jaguars and Jets. He finished his tenure with 3,743 rushing yards (3.5 yards per carry), 949 receiving yards and 27 total touchdowns.

The Tennessee native then went on to a lengthy career as an NFL scout, first with the Bucs and Redskins, and for the past 11 seasons with the 49ers. He was named NFC Scout of the Year by the Fritz Pollard Alliance in 2011.

San Francisco general manager John Lynch, a former teammate of Cobb's in Tampa Bay, remembered him as an "exemplary man."

“We are devastated by the sudden loss of a tremendous teammate and loyal friend, Reggie Cobb," Lynch said in a statement. "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.” 

Volunteers fans remembered Cobb for his explosive quickness. He tallied 2,720 yards from scrimmage, with 29 touchdowns during his career there.

Cobb's passing elicited shock from those who knew him.

 

Arthur Weinstein