Dalvin Cook praises Florida State coaches, teammates, fans in letter

Miami native says going to Tallahassee among 'best decisions I have ever made'

MIAMI – Former Florida State running back Dalvin Cook recently wrote a letter to his coaches, support staff, teammates and fans of the Seminoles, saying leaving Miami for Tallahassee "was one of the best decisions I have ever made."

Florida State shared the letter, titled "4Ever A Nole," Monday on Seminoles.com. Cook wore the No. 4 at Florida State.

Cook, who is expected to be a first-round NFL draft pick, used the letter to thank the various individuals who helped him to become the school's all-time rushing leader.

The Miami Central Senior High School product spoke about his "father-son relationship" with head coach Jimbo Fisher, who led the Seminoles to a national championship in 2013, just before Cook got to campus.

"You pushed me and got my best out of me," Cook said of Fisher.

Cook also praised running backs coach Jay Graham.

"You don't get the credit you deserve," Cook said.

Cook called Graham a "father figure" and someone whom he looks forward to texting and speaking with as he prepares for the NFL.

"I know you'll help me make sure I'm always on the same mission that I was on in Tallahassee," Cook said.

Cook, who left school early, credited the support staff with helping him to "stay grounded" and be in the situation he's in now "to help my family be in a better place."

Cook's message to the younger Seminoles was simple.

"Trust the process," he said. "Buy in to what the coaches say, because they'll never steer you the wrong way."

Cook said he had to watch film on fellow Miami native Devonta Freeman when he got to Florida State to see how he did things. Freeman went on to play for the NFL's Atlanta Falcons and has posted back-to-back 1,000-plus-yard seasons.

"Take the coaching," Cook said. "That's the only tip you need."

Last but not least, Cook thanked the fans.

"You're the best fans in America," he said.

Cook said he hopes Florida State fans will think of him as a "well-grounded guy" who "just wanted to give you all a show."

"I hope you think of me in a positive way," Cook said. "I hope I left my stamp on the program. And I hope that you remember me forever."


About the Author:

Peter Burke returned for a second stint of duty at Local 10 News in February 2014.