
Here's everything NFL Draft fans need to know about Indiana wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr:
Height: 6-0
Weight: 201
Age: 22
A sure-handed target with tons of quickness, Cooper has impressive short-area burst that can turn quick throws into long gains, and he rarely lets the ball hit the ground when it comes his way. His combination of size, explosiveness, and contact balance makes him a dangerous weapon after the catch, and he’s got the vision and playmaking instincts to weave through would-be tacklers and create big plays. He’s got a knack for making highlight-reel catches, even when blanketed by coverage, and he takes his game to another level in clutch moments. He tracks the deep ball effectively, and is comfortable catching the ball away from his frame to eliminate opportunities for the defender to knock it away. Cooper has enough straight-line speed to expose 1-on-1 coverage, and he sells a double-move route as well as any receiver in this class.
The next step in Cooper’s development as a go-to receiver will come in the route-running department, where his command of the entire route tree still has plenty of room to grow. He needs to be more consistent with his lower body, cleaning up his footwork and sinking his hips to explode out of his breaks and create separation. He’s a willing participant as a downfield blocker and does his best to use his solid frame to his advantage, but his technique needs improvement.
There’s WR1 potential here if Cooper can develop his route-running skills, which would take his game to another level. As is, he’s an ideal No. 2 target who can win over the top and after the catch, with the reliable hands and knack for coming through in the clutch that any NFL passing game would love to add at some point on Day 2.
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