2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Marley Cook, DT, Middle Tennessee State
Player Data
| Name, Jersey # | Marley Cook, #57 |
| School (Code) | TNMI |
| DOB, Class Yr | 6/7/2001, Fifth-year Junior. |
| Height, Weight | 6020, 298 |
| 40 Yd Dash | N/A |
| Position/Depth | DT, #1 |
| Honors/Captainship | 2022 Honorable Mention All-CUSA |
| Season Viewed (yr) | 2022, 2023 |
| Games Watched | @KYWE, COST, @ALUN, FLAT (2022) |
| Scout Name / Date | Ryan Vidales 10/1/23 |
Per Year Stats
| 2023 | 4 GP, 7 Tkls, 1.0 TFL, 1 FR |
| 2022 | 12 GP, 22 Tkls, 9.5 TFL, 6.5 Sks, 1 PD |
| 2021 | 11 GP, 14 Tkls, 3.5 TFL, 3.0 Sks,1 INT, 1 FF, 1 PD |
| 2020 | 9 GP, 3 Tkls, |
| 2019 | 4 GP |
Player Summary:
A fifth-year junior who holds moderate height/weight measurements, subpar physical tangibles, and a powerful lower half. Saw minimal playing time during his first two years at MTSU before becoming a full-time starter in 2021. Plays multiple positions across the Blue Raiders’ interior defensive line. Lines up mostly in the 0 and 1 techs but has playing experience in 2i and 3-tech alignments. Possesses noteworthy initial quickness, body control, and pad level at the snap. Proficient hip/ankle flexibility and knee bend provide a low center of gravity as he transitions out of his stance. Appears gap sound and works to maintain gap discipline in the run game. Operates with a space eater’s mentality; Uses a substantial frame to disrupt potential running lanes and quality lateral agility to slant quickly into gaps. A tough and intelligent lineman who embraces the role of a run-first IDL. Willing to cross the face of an IOL to give his teammates a more direct route to the ball carrier. Will also sacrifice his body to create a pile in short-yardage situations. Displays significant play strength, contact balance, and knockback at the POA. Lacks a diverse set of pass rush moves, but has a constant motor, heavy hands, and sufficient lower body explosion to push the pocket with an effective bull rush. Has the play strength to anchor against double teams, but does not consistently shed blocks due to adequate hand use. Flashes high effort and a steady play temperament. Retraces his steps to revert his path to the ball and pursues the ball from sideline to sideline. Exhibits intriguing straight-line speed and functional athleticism in the open field. Would benefit from adding 10-15 pounds of mass to withstand combo blocks and double teams more efficiently.
Scheme Fit:
Scheme-versatile 1-tech DT
Power Statement:
Cook is a slightly undersized DT/NT tweener with notable initial quickness, sneaky functional mobility, and keen body awareness. He is a smart, selfless, and well-coached competitor who prioritizes gap discipline and plays within the confines of his defensive scheme.