Cam Cook hype train continues to gain momentum entering West Virginia's 2026 season

It would be an understatement at this point to say that expectations are high for West Virginia running back Cam Cook.

The Mountaineers acquired Cook in the transfer portal this offseason, and in doing so, they landed one of the best players at the position in the nation. Cook was the leading rusher in FBS football last season, racking up 1,659 yards and 16 touchdowns at Jacksonville State last year.

Given those numbers, it makes plenty of sense that Cook has garnered plenty of attention entering the season, and he has already beennamed a Preseason All-Americanas well asa Preseason All-Big 12 selection. And the hype around him is only continuing to grow as the season rapidly approaches.

Cam Cook named to the Walter Camp Preseason Player of the Year Watch List

On Monday, the Walter Camp Preseason Player of the Year Watch List dropped, and Cook found his name on the list alongside some of the top players in college football. It serves as just another reminder that Cook has lofty expectations on his shoulders as the season approaches.

Cook spoke recently to the media about what it means to be placed on multiple watch lists entering the upcoming season. And while he appreciates the recognition, he's currently more focused onmaking sure he's readyto do whatever it takes to help the Mountaineers win on the field.

"It definitely means something to me," Cook said. "Last year, I wasn't on any watch lists, but I'm not really looking at it in any particular way."

"I just want to do whatever will help us win as a group, and I feel like (the individual accolades) will come along," he said. "If I'm trying my hardest, that stuff will happen on its own."

And with Rodriguez's offense being so heavily run-focused, Cook will certainly be integral to whatever success the Mountaineers find this season. And if the preseason national consensus on Cook proves to be correct, that could mean incredible things for the Mountaineers offensively this season.

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