BUCKEYES STRIKE GOLD: Ohio State Lands 5-Star RB Derrek Cooper, the No. 3 Back in 2026 Class
Columbus, OH — It’s official: Ohio State has landed a major offensive weapon for the future, securing the commitment of 5-star running back Derrek Cooper, the No. 3 RB in the 2026 class. Known for his electric first step, elite field vision, and punishing running style, Cooper’s commitment signals another recruiting win for the Buckeyes — and a nightmare for Big Ten defenses to come.
At 6’0”, 205 pounds, Cooper brings a lethal combination of power and speed. Whether he’s bouncing to the outside or hitting the A-gap like a freight train, Cooper has the traits to become a day-one contributor and eventually, a feature back in the scarlet and gray. Coaches and scouts alike rave about his ability to break tackles, read blocks with maturity, and finish runs with violence.
For Ryan Day and Ohio State’s recruiting machine, this commitment continues a pattern of building top-tier backfields — a tradition that includes the likes of Ezekiel Elliott, J.K. Dobbins, and TreVeyon Henderson. Cooper could be the next in that legendary lineage, especially with a strong offensive line expected to return in 2026.
What makes Cooper’s commitment even more impactful is what it says about Ohio State’s continued dominance in national recruiting. Beating out SEC giants and other Big Ten contenders for a top-three RB shows that Columbus remains one of college football’s premier destinations for elite talent.
Fans already buzzing about the Buckeyes’ future now have one more reason to be excited. With Derrek Cooper in the mix, Ohio State’s backfield is not only secure — it’s dangerous.
The road to the Horseshoe just got a lot more explosive.
