Omar Cooper Jr. — 2026 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 1.0

After getting QB Malik Willis some protection at No. 11 overall, the Dolphins prioritize wide receiver help here after trading Jaylen Waddle to Denver. A second-team All-Big Ten honoree, Cooper caught 69 passes for 937 yards and 13 touchdowns for Indiana last season. One of those TD catches will never be forgotten by Hoosiers fans.

Though wide receiver A.J. Brown is still with the Eagles, the fact that the team reportedly had discussions for a trade tells you it's still possible something happens after June 1, when it becomes more palatable from a salary cap standpoint. Of course, Philadelphia would be thin long term at receiver without Brown, which is where Cooper could help. He's one of the best players in space from this class, averaging 7.3 yards after the catch in 2025. Plus, he can block extremely well downfield, which would fare well for running back Saquon Barkley.

They invested heavily in (Iowa State) receivers in last year's draft, but Houston still doesn't have a proven option behind WR1 Nico Collins. And a team that doesn't appear to have many glaring needs might decide Cooper, Mendoza's top target at IU — and one comfortable operating from the slot — might be too good to pass up.

Cooper would be an awesome complement to veteran receiver Garrett Wilson. The former Hoosier is a tough pass catcher who can play inside and outside.

The Browns need to get a threat on the outside. Cooper's film is so good, but he seems to be on the rise during this draft process after what he showed at the combine. He's fantastic in short areas and can catch the ball well in traffic. Of course, Cooper also made the play of the year when he made that incredible touchdown catch in Indiana's win over Penn State. I thought Cooper was also the best wide receiver with the ball in his hands in the Big Ten.