Done deal; Ohio State Lands 5-Star RB Derrek Cooper — The No. 3 RB in 2026, known for his explosive acceleration, sharp vision, and physical running style, gives the Buckeyes a future backfield centerpiece
Standing 6’1″ and weighing 200 pounds, Cooper has been a dominant force on the field. During his junior year, he amassed 905 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns, averaging 7.3 yards per carry. Additionally, he showcased his versatility by catching nine passes for 156 yards and another score, leading Chaminade-Madonna to an FHSAA 1A State Championship title . His performance at the Under Armour All-America Game further solidified his reputation, where he demonstrated elite-level athleticism and a natural feel for the position .On3+2SBNation.com+2Sportskeeda+2
Cooper’s recruitment was highly competitive, with top programs like Georgia, Miami, Florida State, Auburn, Alabama, and Ohio State vying for his commitment. Initially, he committed to Georgia in June 2024 but decommitted shortly after, keeping his options open . Throughout the process, Cooper emphasized the importance of how he would be utilized, the relationships between his family and the coaching staff, and the stability of the program .On3+5SBNation.com+5On3+5On3
Ohio State’s approach, led by running backs coach Carlos Locklyn, resonated with Cooper. Cooper praised Locklyn for his thorough analysis of his film and the personalized coaching he received, which played a significant role in his decision to commit to the Buckeyes . The opportunity to play for a program with a rich history of developing elite talent and competing at the highest level was also a compelling factor.On3+2On3+2On3+2On3Sportskeeda
Cooper’s skill set is multifaceted. His explosive acceleration allows him to break away from defenders, while his sharp vision enables him to read defenses effectively and find running lanes. His physical running style makes him a challenging player to bring down, and his ability to catch passes out of the backfield adds another dimension to his game. These attributes make him a perfect fit for Ohio State’s dynamic offensive scheme.
With Cooper’s commitment, Ohio State has secured a future centerpiece for its backfield. His addition complements the Buckeyes’ 2026 recruiting class, which includes five-star wide receiver Chris Henry Jr. and other top-tier prospects. As Cooper prepares to join the program, expectations are high for him to make an immediate impact and contribute to Ohio State’s continued success on the national stage.On3
In summary, Derrek Cooper’s commitment to Ohio State marks a significant milestone in the Buckeyes’ recruiting efforts. His blend of speed, vision, and physicality positions him to be a standout player in the coming years, and his presence in the backfield is poised to be a key component of Ohio State’s offensive strategy.
