OFFICIAL: Ohio State Signs 5-Star Running Back The Buckeyes have a future backfield focal point in Derrek Cooper, the No. 3 RB in 2026 who is renowned for his quick acceleration, keen vision, and physical rushing style.

The Ohio State Buckeyes have added yet another blue-chip weapon to their offensive arsenal. In a move that sent shockwaves through the national recruiting landscape, Ohio State officially secured the commitment of 5-star running back Derrek Cooper, the No. 3 ranked rusher in the 2026 class, according to multiple recruiting services. For head coach Ryan Day and running backs coach Tony Alford, Cooper represents more than just another elite talent — he’s the potential centerpiece of the Buckeyes’ future backfield.

At 5-foot-11, 210 pounds, Cooper blends punishing physicality with breakaway speed. His combination of burst, vision, and relentless motor has made him one of the most coveted backs in the nation. Hailing from Buford High School in Georgia, a known pipeline for collegiate talent, Cooper’s commitment signals another major win for Ohio State in SEC country — a recruiting battleground that Day and his staff have increasingly dominated.

Cooper’s recruitment had long been dominated by whispers of a southern landing spot. With programs like Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, and LSU all making hard pushes, many assumed he would stay close to home. But Ohio State’s ability to establish a national recruiting brand paid off yet again.

“This is where I feel I can be developed the best,” Cooper said during his commitment ceremony. “Coach Alford knows how to get guys to the league. I’ve seen what they’ve done with TreVeyon [Henderson], with J.K. Dobbins, and with Ezekiel Elliott before them. It’s not just hype — they produce. And I want to be a part of that.”

The Buckeyes’ pitch was rooted in tradition, opportunity, and NFL preparation. Cooper’s family emphasized that the visit to Columbus solidified the decision. The facilities, player support system, and academic resources all played a role, but what stood out was the authenticity of the coaching staff.

“Coach Alford didn’t promise me anything,” Cooper explained. “He told me I’d have to earn it. That meant something.”

Cooper has been lighting up Georgia high school football fields since his sophomore year, with over 3,000 career rushing yards and 42 total touchdowns entering his senior season. What sets him apart, though, isn’t just production — it’s how he produces.

Recruiting analyst Steve Wiltfong described him as “a decisive, one-cut runner with excellent balance and underrated top-end speed.” On tape, Cooper doesn’t waste motion. He sees a crease, he hits it — often before defenders can adjust. His low center of gravity allows him to bounce off tacklers, while his agility in space forces missed tackles at the second level.

Additionally, he’s shown advanced skills in pass protection and receiving out of the backfield, making him a true three-down weapon.

“Cooper’s not just a between-the-tackles bruiser,” 247Sports analyst Andrew Ivins noted. “He can line up in the slot, run wheel routes, or pick up blitzing linebackers with NFL-level anticipation. That makes him incredibly valuable in today’s college offenses.”

Ohio State’s running back room will look different by the time Cooper arrives. With Henderson likely headed to the NFL, and the possibility of current depth players transferring, the opportunity for early playing time is very real.

While Ohio State never promises starting roles to freshmen, Cooper could follow a trajectory similar to Dobbins or Henderson, both of whom saw the field early due to their readiness and maturity.

“I’m coming in to compete,” Cooper said. “But I’m also coming in to learn. There’s a standard in that room. You don’t walk in and take a job — you earn it. And that’s exactly what I plan to do.”

With 4-star 2025 running back Isaiah West already in the fold, and several others under evaluation, the Buckeyes are stacking their backfield with talent, but Cooper is expected to be the crown jewel of the group.

Cooper is now the highest-rated offensive commit in Ohio State’s 2026 class, which currently ranks among the top five nationally. His commitment could serve as a catalyst for others.

Five-star offensive tackle James Newhouse, who has long been considered a Buckeye lean, was in attendance at Cooper’s announcement. When asked about the possibility of blocking for the newly committed RB, Newhouse smiled and said, “That’d be a lot of fun.”

Wide receiver Jaeden Ricks, another top-50 talent, tweeted shortly after the commitment: “@DerrekCooper26 let’s get it! #GoBucks.” The ripple effect has begun.

Ohio State’s class already includes a strong defensive base, but Cooper’s addition addresses a high-priority offensive position and raises the overall ceiling of the group.

This wasn’t just a win for Ohio State — it was a loss for multiple SEC powers. Georgia had hosted Cooper multiple times and was considered a co-favorite until late in the cycle. LSU made a strong push in March. Alabama’s Nick Saban even personally visited Buford High before his retirement, and Kalen DeBoer continued to recruit him hard.

Beating those programs for a top-tier back, especially one from the heart of SEC country, sends a strong message about Ohio State’s reach and influence.

“It’s the kind of move that separates playoff teams from national champions,” said recruiting insider Chad Simmons. “You land a kid like Cooper, you’re not just keeping up — you’re setting the pace.”

Ohio State’s offense is evolving. While the Buckeyes have traditionally leaned on their quarterback talent and vertical passing game, the recent success of players like Henderson and Miyan Williams has emphasized the need for balance.

Cooper gives the offense that flexibility. His ability to run from shotgun or under center, combined with his receiving skills, opens up a multitude of possibilities.

Expect the Buckeyes to use him in split back sets, as a motion threat, and potentially as a red zone workhorse.

“I see a lot of similarities with J.K. [Dobbins],” said Coach Alford. “He’s got that same body control and burst. But what sets Derrek apart is his football IQ. He’s already diagnosing fronts and understanding protection schemes like a college junior.”

Buford High School has produced NFL-level talent for years, including the likes of defensive back Jake Pope and offensive lineman Seth McLaughlin. Cooper’s arrival continues that tradition, but his departure from the Southeast is noteworthy.

His coaches have praised his leadership and maturity — qualities that suggest he’ll be an early culture fit in Columbus.

“You’re getting a player who’s going to grind in the film room, practice like it’s game day, and represent your program the right way,” Buford head coach Bryant Appling said. “Ohio State’s getting a good one. We’ll miss him, but we’re proud of him.”

With his commitment locked in, Cooper says he plans to focus entirely on his senior season and avoid the drama that often follows top prospects.

“I’m done. I’m 100% committed,” he said. “Now it’s about being the best version of me I can be before I get to Columbus.”

He’ll play his final high school season with a target on his back — not just as Buford’s star player, but as Ohio State’s next big thing. But if his past performances are any indication, he’ll embrace that pressure and continue to thrive.

Derrek Cooper’s commitment is a massive win for Ohio State, and more importantly, a critical investment in the program’s future. In today’s game, elite running backs are often overlooked in favor of pass-first philosophies, but Cooper is a reminder of what a true bell-cow can bring: reliability, explosiveness, and a physical edge that sets the tone on every down.

His decision to leave SEC country and join the Buckeye Brotherhood speaks volumes about the culture Ryan Day and his staff have cultivated. If all goes according to plan, Cooper won’t just be a name on a recruiting list — he’ll be a household name in college football by the time he’s done in Columbus.