The development of Texas Longhorns running back Derrek Cooper has caught the eye of head coach Steve Sarkisian, who is impressed with the freshman's natural talent and physicality.
In a recent scrimmage, Sarkisian praised Cooper's hard-charging style and his ability to play with speed and physicality, describing him as a "very natural football player." This natural talent is not limited to offense, as Cooper also excelled on defense and special teams in high school, showcasing his versatility.
"He's a jack-of-all-trades," Sarkisian added. "His ability to contribute on both sides of the ball and in special teams is a huge asset for our team."
One of the key aspects of Cooper's development has been his quick understanding of the offense. Despite facing a learning curve in pass protection, a common challenge for young running backs, Cooper has impressed with his knowledge and willingness to learn from his more experienced teammates.
"D-Coop has an incredible work ethic and a thirst for knowledge," Sarkisian said. "He's always asking questions, seeking feedback, and pushing himself to improve. That attitude is infectious and sets a great example for the rest of the team."
As the season approaches, Cooper is poised to make an impact as the third-string running back. His size and speed combination make him a valuable asset, providing a powerful presence alongside the lightning-quick Raleek Brown and Hollywood Smothers.
"Derrek's ability to create explosive plays is a game-changer for us," Sarkisian explained. "He has the potential to be a real difference-maker, and we're excited to see him develop and contribute to our success on the field."
The early enrollment of Cooper in the 2026 recruiting class has been a key addition for Texas, especially after missing out on several top targets. His commitment to the Longhorns, without even visiting the campus during the summer, speaks volumes about his character and dedication to the team.
"D-Coop's decision to join us shows his faith in our program and his commitment to his teammates," Sarkisian said. "We're thrilled to have him on board and can't wait to see what he accomplishes in the coming years."
As Cooper continues to develop and gain experience, his impact on the team is expected to grow. With his natural talent, work ethic, and willingness to learn, he has the potential to become a key contributor and a fan favorite.
