After an already incredible week of securing two top-tier defensive recruits, namely 5-star LB Tyler Atkinson and 4-star DT James Johnson, the Horns wrap up on a positive note by landing 4-star running back Derrek Cooper from Chaminade-Madonna HS (Hollywood, FL) tonight.
Texas continues to discover exceptional talent from the Sunshine State, including 5-star quarterback Dia Bell from American Heritage HS in Fort Lauderdale and James Johnson from the Miami area. Let's not forget about current Longhorns C.J. Baxter from Orlando and Jerrick Gibson from Gainesville.
Florida is starting become a pipeline for the University of Texas to find above-average talent on both sides of the ball.
Texas stays hot on the recruiting trail, picking up a commitment from 2026 RB Derek Cooper, one of the top running backs in the country.
— HornSports (@HornSports) July 20, 2025
Massive pickup for Steve Sarkisian and first year RB coach Chad Scott. #HookEm pic.twitter.com/BSaiAZQIdl
Let's dive into what Cooper brings to the Longhorns' running back room. The first notable aspect is his size, standing at 6'1" and weighing 205 pounds, with potential to add more muscle. He effectively uses his upper body and core strength to shake off tacklers in close situations. Additionally, he possesses exceptional vision, allowing him to spot openings and accelerate with urgency for significant plays or touchdowns. This skill is enhanced by his track experience, where as a sophomore, he competed in the 100-meter dash and long jump, ultimately becoming a state qualifier.
He also contributes on defense as a linebacker and safety, accumulating 46 tackles, 10 TFL, 4 pass breakups, 4 sacks, 3 fumble recoveries, and 2 forced fumbles, while also blocking two punts on special teams. As a running back, he carried the ball 124 times for 905 yards (9.3 yards per carry) and scored 13 touchdowns, in addition to catching 9 passes for 156 yards and a touchdown, as reported by 24/7 Sports. He can also be dominant in the passing game, particularly on swing and screen passes thanks to his speed and strength.
Overall, Cooper is a versatile running back with significant potential to develop into an outstanding player for the Horns. Texas has a reputation for being referred to as "RBU" in certain circles, known for maximizing the talent of their running backs overall, including their rotational guys. Cooper joins a running back group that includes Quintrevion Wisner and fellow Floridians CJ Baxter and Jerrick Gibson, from whom he can learn. With that in mind, Longhorns fans shouldn't be surprised if they start to hear Cooper's name on Saturdays sooner rather than later.