Omar Cooper Jr. Draft Grade | Round 1, Pick 30 | FanVerdicts

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Sentiment

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Fan Verdict

Sentiment Analysis

Scouting Report

Big Board Rank: #24 · 1st Round Talent

Omar Cooper Jr. has evolved from a lightly recruited three-star prospect into Indiana's most explosive offensive weapon and a legitimate first-round NFL talent. After a modest freshman campaign, Cooper exploded onto the national scene as a sophomore with elite deep-ball production, then followed with a dominant junior season that established him as one of college football's premier vertical threats. His combination of elite speed, precise route-running, and clutch gene makes him a Day 1 starter capable of stretching any NFL defense. While questions remain about his ability to win consistently against press coverage and his overall route tree diversity, Cooper's big-play ability and proven track record in clutch moments have solidified his status as a top-25 prospect.

Strengths

+Elite deep-ball tracking ability with exceptional spatial awareness allows him to adjust his body positioning mid-flight to high-point contested catches over defensive backs.

+Possesses game-breaking speed that consistently creates separation on vertical routes, with the acceleration to pull away from defenders in the second level.

+Outstanding route precision on intermediate patterns, particularly dig routes and comebacks, where his sudden breaks create immediate separation windows.

+Natural hands catcher who secures the ball away from his body and maintains possession through contact, evidenced by minimal drop rate over three seasons.

+Exceptional body control and balance when working back to underthrown balls, showing the ability to shield defenders and create contested catch opportunities.

+Demonstrates excellent football IQ with ability to find soft spots in zone coverage and adjust routes based on defensive leverage.

+Clutch performer in high-pressure situations, with multiple game-winning catches in critical moments throughout his college career.

+Strong competitive toughness when working over the middle, willing to absorb contact while maintaining focus on the catch point.

+Effective yards-after-catch ability on short and intermediate routes, using vision and acceleration to maximize every reception.

+Consistent production against top-tier competition, with several dominant performances against ranked opponents and NFL-caliber defensive backs.

Weaknesses

-Lacks ideal size for contested situations and can be overpowered by bigger, physical cornerbacks in press coverage alignments.

-Route tree is somewhat limited, with primary effectiveness on vertical concepts and intermediate crossing routes rather than full route diversity.

-Struggles against jam-heavy press coverage, particularly when facing longer, more athletic defensive backs who can disrupt his release timing.

-Needs to improve release package variety, as he relies heavily on speed rather than nuanced hand usage and footwork to beat press coverage.

-Blocking effort and technique are inconsistent, particularly on running plays where his engagement level varies significantly.

-Can be knocked off routes by physical contact during the stem, lacking the overall strength to consistently power through disruption.

-Occasional concentration lapses on routine catches when working underneath, though this has improved significantly over his college career.

NFL Comparison: Tyler Lockett

Fan voting will be available once grades are published.

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