Eagles training camp has brought forth a number of compelling storylines, none more surprising or impactful than the emergence of wide receiver Elijah Cooks, whose distinctive athletic background has proven to be a significant asset on the professional gridiron.

Hailing from Atascadero High School in California, Cooks initially showcased versatility as a standout in both football and basketball. While his collegiate path eventually narrowed to football at the University of Nevada, his basketball prowess wasn’t entirely abandoned, even serving as an emergency replacement for the Wolfpack’s basketball team due to injuries.

His dedication to football intensified, culminating in a stellar final collegiate season at San Jose State. There, Cooks put together an impressive stat line, hauling in 69 receptions for 1,076 yards and 10 touchdowns, a performance that earned him First-Team All-Mountain West honors and solidified his NFL aspirations.

Despite his collegiate success, Cooks entered the professional ranks as an undrafted free agent, signing with the Jacksonville Jaguars after the 2023 draft. He managed to carve out a role, appearing in 11 games across the 2023 and 2024 seasons, gaining valuable NFL experience before his move to Philadelphia.

The transition to the Eagles saw Cooks initially join the practice squad during the team’s successful Super Bowl LIX championship run in January, subsequently agreeing to a futures deal. This foundational period allowed him to acclimate to the team’s system and prepare for his current breakout performance.

At the Eagles’ highly competitive training camp, Cooks’ unique physical attributes and refined skills have drawn considerable attention. His impressive size, extended length, superior body control, and exceptional ability to secure contested catches have consistently stood out amongst his peers.

Cooks himself credits his extensive basketball background as a primary contributor to his aerial dominance. “I’ve always looked at that as a strength. I used to play basketball. So going up and getting those 50-50 balls is kind of just my specialty,” he explained, emphasizing how his hoops experience translates directly to winning jump balls on the football field.

This insight draws parallels to the celebrated career of Antonio Gates, a former college basketball star turned Pro Football Hall of Fame tight end, whom Cooks has admired. Gates’ successful transition and ability to leverage his basketball skills for NFL success provides a powerful blueprint, inspiring Cooks to maximize his own athletic fusion in the demanding environment of professional football.