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Reggie Cobb, longtime NFL scout and former running back, dies at 50

TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 24: Running Back Reggie Cobb #32 of the Green Bay Packers breaks a tackle by Linbacker Marty Carter #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and runs for a few extra yards during a NFL game at Tampa Stadium on December 24, 1994 in Tampa, Florida. Green Bay won the game 34-19. (Photo by Michael J. Minardi/Getty Images)
Reggie Cobb, a former NFL running back and 49ers scout, died on Saturday from an apparent heart attack. (Getty Images)

Reggie Cobb, who spent seven years in the NFL as a running back and the past 10 years as a scout for the San Francisco 49ers, died from an apparent heart attack on Saturday, the team announced. He was 50.

Cobb was beginning his 26th season as an NFL scout, and 11th with the 49ers. He spent two years scouting for the Washington Redskins starting in 2001 and six with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before joining the 49ers.

He was named the 2011 NFC Scout of the Year in 2011 by the Fritz Pollard Alliance.

“Reggie was an enthusiastic and passionate person who had a special ability to brighten up a room with his personality and infectious smile,” 49ers general manager John Lynch said in a statement. “For 10 years, the 49ers were better because of Reggie and these unique qualities that he possessed.”

Cobb played for the Buccaneers, Green Bay Packers, Jacksonville Jaguars and New York Jets after being drafted in the second round by Tampa Bay in 1990. He recorded a 1,000-yard rushing season for the Buccaneers in 1992.

Cobb amassed 3,743 yards and 25 touchdowns over his career while also recording 123 catches for 949 yards. He played collegiately at Tennessee, where his 2,360 yards rushing ranks 11th in program history. He led the SEC with 20 touchdowns in 1987.

“We’re saddened to hear of the passing of former running back Reggie Cobb,” the Buccaneers tweeted. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Cobb family.”

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