In his senior season, he had 29 receptions for 459 yards and 11 touchdowns while posting 34 tackles and three interceptions helping lead Latin to the state championship game.

[8] Cockrell graduated from Duke that same month with a degree in political science and received a certificate in markets and management studies.

The main issues that worried scouts were physical attributes like having small hands, a skinny lower body, thin frame, short arms, and his lack of strength during press coverage and taking on blocks.

[9] Although he had a good showing at the combine, Cockrell decided to participate in all the events during Duke's Pro Day.

[24] On October 9, 2016, Cockrell collected four solo tackles and three pass deflections during the Steelers 31–13 rout of the New York Jets.

[27] On December 25, 2016, Cockrell recorded a season-high seven combined tackles as the Steelers defeated the Baltimore Ravens 31–27 and clinched the AFC North.

[30] On September 2, 2017, Cockrell was traded to the New York Giants after the Pittsburgh Steelers signed cornerback Joe Haden after his release by the Cleveland Browns.

[32] During training camp on July 30, 2018, Cockrell suffered a broken left tibia and fibula which required surgery.

[34] In Week 3 of the 2019 season against the Houston Texans, Cockrell intercepted a pass thrown by wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins and returned it for 37 yards in the 16–10 win.

[35] In Week 6 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Cockrell intercepted a pass from Jameis Winston in the 37–26 win.

[36] After becoming a free agent in March 2020, Cockrell visited the New York Giants on August 8, 2020,[37] but did not sign with the team.

[41] Cockrell played in all four games in the Buccaneers' playoff run that resulted in the team winning Super Bowl LV.