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11 hours ago
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The Texas Longhorns just added another major weapon to their future offense.
Top RB recruit Derrek Cooper picks Texas Longhorns ver powerhouse rivals
Derrek Cooper, the No. 1-ranked running back in the 2026 recruiting class, announced his commitment to Texas on Sunday night. The 6-foot-2, 205-pound standout from Chaminade-Madonna Prep in Hollywood, Florida, chose the Longhorns over Georgia, Ohio State, Miami, and Florida State.
Cooper becomes the fourth five-star pledge in a 2026 Texas class that's quickly becoming one of the most stacked in the country. He’s also the seventh-ranked overall prospect in the ESPN 300.
His commitment comes shortly after Texas landed top linebacker Tyler Atkinson and flipped four-star defensive lineman James Johnson from Georgia. Cooper now joins a list of high-level talent already heading to Austin, including fellow five-stars Dia Bell and Richard Wesley, along with several top-100 players like John Turntine III and Samari Matthews.
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The Longhorns coaching staff, led by Steve Sarkisian and new running backs coach Chad Scott, clearly made a strong impression. According to Cooper’s father, the staff envisions him playing a versatile role in the offense, similar to how Texas once used Bijan Robinson.
“They don’t have a guy like Derrek right now,” his father said. “They think he can line up in the backfield, catch passes, move around. They want to unlock everything he can do.”
Cooper made an unofficial visit to Texas in April but did not return for an official one before locking in his choice. As a junior last fall, he rushed for 905 yards and 13 touchdowns on 124 carries while also making plays on defense with 46 tackles and four sacks.
With his speed, strength, and pass-catching ability, Cooper should fit right into Sarkisian’s creative offensive system. Even with a deep group of running backs already on the roster, Cooper’s skill set could allow him to see early playing time.
He’s considered one of the top athletes in Florida for 2026, behind only quarterback Dia Bell, another Longhorns commit. His high school resume also includes a state title and all-state honors.
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