The NFL is mourning the loss of respected San Francisco 49ers area scout, Reggie Cobb, who passed away of an apparent heart attack on Saturday at the age of 50. He wasn't just a vital part of the team's scouting department, but he was also a former NFL running back.
Cobb played seven years in the NFL after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers made him a second-round pick out of Tennessee in 1990. He remained in Tampa until 1993, the same year the team drafted a future nine-time Pro Bowl selection and three-time first-team All-Pro safety by the name of John Lynch.
Lynch, now the 49ers general manager, issued the following statement about his staff member and former teammate.
"We are devastated by the sudden loss of a tremendous teammate and loyal friend, Reggie Cobb. 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."
Cobb spent time with the Green Bay Packers, Jacksonville Jaguars, and New York Jets after his time with the Buccaneers. He entered the scouting world with the Washington Redskins in 2001 and spent two seasons there.
Cobb also spent six years with his former team, the Buccaneers, before becoming the 49ers' Western regional scout in 2009. He was named the NFC Scout of the Year by the Fritz Pollard Alliance in 2011.
Those that had the privilege of knowing and working with Cobb, including current and past 49ers players, reflected on the loss via social media. It gives you just a small glimpse at how respected he was within the scouting community and among the players.
My heart is heavy right now! This is the guy that gave me hope and light! He believed in me when very few did! I am forever grateful to have learned and absorb so much from him! Thank you Regg!! https://t.co/bt8Z2YgiqR
— Raheem Mostert (@RMos_8Ball) April 20, 2019
This guy was confident in me when I wasn't even confident in myself😔
— 7️⃣even (@EliHarold_) April 20, 2019
Just talked to the man a day ago 😞😞. RIP and many condolences to the family so sorry for your loss https://t.co/XVwHl7GwMo
— Ronald Blair III (@superblair) April 20, 2019
My heart goes out to Reggie's family and loved ones. He had the most infectious positive personality. Always ready with a smile or a word of encouragement. He will be missed greatly by so so many. https://t.co/oIhouTc7wg
— Joe Staley (@jstaley74) April 21, 2019
Sending my condolences to his family. He always kept me in high spirits and brought positive energy to the room. 🙏🏾 RIP Reggie https://t.co/rIeeb3cc1y
— Earl M. (@EarlMitchell90) April 21, 2019
I lost a great friend and former teammate today. I was also blessed to have him as a colleague with the 49ers. My heart is heavy right now. He will be missed. https://t.co/6TcBoK8tI0
— Martin Mayhew (@MartinMayhew35) April 20, 2019
Broke into scouting with one of the best guys I've ever met. When I found out we would room together at St. Norberts, I brought my Nintendo to play him using him on Tecmo Bowl. So many great memories over the years. He called me Lickenliter, I called him Cobb-bra-la! Love ya Reg! pic.twitter.com/T2TN4pRvIw
— Bridge (@BridgesFootball) April 21, 2019
The passing of Reggie Cobb in a word is devastating. The amount of time I spent w/him as a scout & friend over the past 18 years simply talking ball & laughing as hard as I have ever laughed is what I will keep with me forever. Rest easy RC & prayers to his family. I love you.
— Louis Riddick (@LRiddickESPN) April 20, 2019
The NFL scouting community lost one of the good guys. Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of @49ers scout Reggie Cobb. Reggie and I were rookie scouts with the @Redskins together in '01 and he was always fun to be around. Scouts will miss his infectious laugh. RIP, Reg. 🙏
— Jim Nagy (@JimNagy_SB) April 20, 2019
Reggie Cobb was easily one of the coolest scouts on the road. Always helped younger guys. One of the nicest guys I ever met regardless of professional.. Just an awful day for the his family and the 49ers. Man
— John Middlekauff (@JohnMiddlekauff) April 20, 2019
#RIP #ReggieCobb, Reggie and I went way back to his #Tennessee days where I timed him on the 5th Floor of the Holiday Inn in the 40. The maids watched the doors. Reggie ran five 40s. He got faster every time. Great guy! pic.twitter.com/fzLrtUiziK
— Dan Shonka (@Ourlads_Shonka) April 20, 2019
Reggie was universally loved in the scouting community. He was always happy & smiling. Praying for his family and friends. https://t.co/VY7l2BgwJX
— Daniel Jeremiah (@MoveTheSticks) April 20, 2019
Cannot believe we've lost Reggie Cobb. I'm heartbroken that another teammate, and wonderful man is gone far too soon. @Vol_Football @49ers
— Charles Davis (@CFD22) April 20, 2019