Is Indiana's Omar Cooper Jr. Really the Next NFL Star? Shocking Comparisons You Won't Believe!

As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches in April, the buzz surrounding the Indiana Hoosiers' football program is growing, particularly about two standout players. Leading the conversation is quarterback Fernando Mendoza, a Heisman Trophy winner who is widely projected to be the No. 1 overall pick, potentially heading to the Las Vegas Raiders. However, he isn’t the only Hoosier generating excitement among NFL scouts. Wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. is also making waves, earning recognition as a likely first-round draft pick.

Cooper, who became one of Mendoza's go-to targets, is projected to be selected in the 20s of the first round according to various mock drafts. His impressive college performance included 69 receptions for 937 yards and 13 touchdowns during the 2025 season, contributing to a stellar collegiate career that saw him total 115 receptions for 1,798 yards and 22 touchdowns over three seasons.

In a recent analysis by NFL draft expert Lance Zierlein from NFL.com, Cooper has drawn comparisons to Deebo Samuel of the Washington Commanders. Zierlein noted that Cooper is a “big, strong target whose two-year rise is bolstered by translatable tape.” He pointed out that while Cooper played primarily as a slot receiver in 2025, he has also shown the versatility to line up outside. His strength allows him to effectively navigate press coverage, and his early acceleration enables him to get a step ahead of defenders.

“His routes lack polish and he has average in-and-out quickness at break points, but he’s rugged once the ball is in his hands,” Zierlein explained. “His ability to add yards after contact could earn Cooper more carries than we saw from him at Indiana.” While he has areas for improvement—particularly in fighting for catch space and blocking for the running game—Zierlein emphasizes that Cooper is an “ascending slot bully with Day 2 value.”

With the NFL continually evolving and teams looking for dynamic playmakers, Cooper’s skill set could be appealing to several franchises. The Denver Broncos and Pittsburgh Steelers are two teams mentioned as potential landing spots for the talented receiver, both of which could benefit from his unique abilities on the field.

The upcoming 2026 NFL Draft promises to be an exciting showcase for the Indiana Hoosiers, particularly for Cooper, who is rapidly gaining traction in the national sports media. As both he and Mendoza prepare to take their talents to the next level, all eyes will be on how their journeys unfold in the professional realm.