Derrek Cooper

Physical Profile

Stands at a well-built 6-foot-1 and 205 pounds, with a frame that can easily add more mass without sacrificing athleticism. Possesses a verified track background, including a 10.77 100-meter dash, which showcases legitimate long speed to complement his power. His build is ideal for a high-volume running back, with the lower-body thickness to break tackles and withstand the physical demands of the position at the next level.

Play Style

Cooper is a classic downhill force who operates with purpose and physicality. On film, he demonstrates impressive timing and decisiveness in hitting the hole, using his vision to identify lanes and his size to exploit them. He doesn't waste movement, preferring to get vertical quickly and challenge defenders head-on. He consistently lowers his shoulder to finish runs and has shown the speed to turn a crease into a long gain, though his primary strength is wearing down a defense with his relentless, punishing style.

Strengths

• Powerful, north-south runner who excels between the tackles, consistently finishing runs by falling forward and moving the pile.
• Excellent contact balance and core power, allowing him to absorb hits from defenders and stay on his feet to create significant yardage after initial contact.
• Versatile athlete with extensive experience on defense as a linebacker and safety, which translates to a high football IQ, good field vision, and a physical mindset on offense.
• Proven, high-level production against elite competition in South Florida, winning the Nat Moore Trophy as the area's top player after rushing for 1,597 yards and 19 TDs as a senior.
• Capable pass-catcher out of the backfield who tracks the ball well and has reliable hands, offering three-down value.

Areas to Improve

• Pass protection is a largely unknown element of his game and will require significant technical refinement to become a trusted third-down player at the collegiate level.
• While he has good long speed, he is more of a powerful, one-cut runner than an elusive back who will make multiple defenders miss in space; needs to continue developing lateral agility and flexibility.

College Projection

Cooper projects as a featured, multi-year starting running back for a College Football Playoff contender. Given his physical readiness and experience at Chaminade-Madonna, he has the potential to earn meaningful carries early in his freshman year in a committee. He has the upside to develop into a 1,200+ yard rusher and a primary goal-line and short-yardage weapon by his second year on campus.

NFL Outlook

With his combination of size, power, documented speed, and production, Cooper profiles as a high-end NFL draft prospect. He possesses the foundational traits of a starting NFL running back. If he continues to develop, particularly in the passing game as a blocker, and maintains his health, he has the potential to be a Day 1 or Day 2 selection in the NFL Draft.

Best Fit

A pro-style or multiple-set offensive scheme that values a physical, one-cut running game would be an ideal fit. A program that utilizes gap and power running concepts will maximize his strengths as a downhill runner who can set the tone for an offense and excel in high-leverage, short-yardage situations.