2026 NFL Prospect Profile: Indiana Wide Receiver Omar Cooper Jr.

Omar Cooper Jr. has steadily risen through the Big Ten ranks to become one of Indiana’s most dependable offensive weapons and a legitimate 2026 NFL Draft prospect. A former four-star recruit from Lawrence North High School in Indianapolis, Cooper entered the program known for his polished hands, route-running maturity, and competitive toughness. After redshirting as a freshman, he gradually earned more opportunities and ultimately developed into a high-volume, high-impact target for the Hoosiers.

Cooper’s early flashes were subtle but promising. He gains separation in short areas, shows strong concentration at the catch point, and finds space against both zone and man coverage. By 2024, he took on a more substantial role within the offense, and by 2025, he transformed into Indiana’s go-to receiver, posting career-best production while proving he could threaten defenses at every level of the field.

Indiana’s offensive staff made full use of Cooper’s versatility. He lined up both inside and outside, handled pre-snap motion responsibilities, and operated effectively in quick-game concepts as well as deeper intermediate routes. His consistency and reliability helped stabilize Indiana’s passing attack, and his film shows a player with a professional approach to preparation, technique, and situational awareness. Cooper’s 2025 breakout vaulted him onto the draft radar as one of the most complete receivers in the conference entering 2026.

Strengths

Polished Route Runner

Cooper’s pacing, leverage usage, and ability to manipulate defensive backs allow him to consistently generate separation. He understands timing-based concepts and thrives in rhythm passing schemes.

Strong Hands & Catch-Point Competitiveness

He tracks the ball well, secures contested throws, and maintains focus through contact. His catch radius is impressive for his size due to his body control.

Versatility Across Formations

Indiana used him in the slot, outside, and on motion and jet-action looks. His adaptability makes him an easy fit in multiple NFL offensive structures.

Run-After-Catch Toughness

Cooper accelerates efficiently and shows decisiveness after the catch. His willingness to break tackles and fight for extra yards adds value beyond simple possession production.

High Football IQ

He identifies soft spots in zone coverage and adjusts effectively on scramble drills. His awareness and alignment flexibility reflect a high level of preparation

Weaknesses

Lacks Elite Long-Speed

Cooper has good burst but not top-tier vertical acceleration. He wins more through technique than overwhelming athleticism on deep routes.

Release Development Needed

Press-man corners with strong hands can disrupt him early in routes. Expanding his release package will be critical at the next level.

Inconsistent Separation vs. NFL-Caliber DBs

While effective in college, he must continue improving his sharpness at the top of routes to defeat higher-level competition.

Physical Strength at the Line

Adding functional mass will help him combat physical boundary corners and improve his blocking effectiveness.

Conclusion

Omar Cooper Jr. projects as a polished, dependable receiver with the traits to carve out an early role in an NFL passing offense. His route-running acumen, reliable hands, and multi-positional versatility give him a high floor, while further refinement in his release technique and physical development could significantly raise his ceiling.

Draft Nation currently projects Cooper as a Day 2 selection, with the potential to climb if he continues to build on his 2025 momentum and tests well during the pre-draft process. A strong comparison is Amon-Ra St. Brown, a technician-driven receiver whose competitive nature and versatility have translated seamlessly to the next level.