The Indiana Hoosiers set a program record by having eight players selected in the 2026 NFL Draft. On top of that, Fernando Mendoza and Omar Cooper Jr. became the first pair of Hoosier teammates to be selected in the first round of the same draft. Mendoza was unsurprisingly picked No. 1 overall by the Las Vegas Raiders, while Cooper was taken 30th overall by the New York Jets.
The NFL preseason has begun, meaning former Hoosiers are looking to make their mark with their respective teams. As position battles continue on, Cooper could be in danger of slipping down New York's depth chart.
Omar Cooper Jr. reportedly losing ground in Jets WR room
New York's unquestioned No. 1 receiver will once again be Garrett Wilson. Now entering his fifth NFL season, Wilson's spot at the top of the Jets' WR depth chart is not in danger. Adonai Mitchell is in a good position to hold on to the No. 2 WR spot, while New York's No. 3 spot is still up for grabs. It was thought that Cooper would take the reins on that position, but that could be changing.
According to ESPN reporter Rich Cimini, who covers the Jets, Cooper is in danger of being "leapfrogged" in New York's WR depth chart. It turns out that third-year playmaker Isaiah Williams is making a lasting impression in training camp, and could take New York's No. 3 WR spot after initially being viewed as a return specialist.
There is still a lot of time for Cooper to solidify his spot, but the pressure from Williams is certainly noteworthy. The Jets used their third first round pick on Cooper, and have high hopes for him to make an immediate impact in a passing attack that desperately needs new energy.
Omar Cooper Jr. battling with Isaiah Williams for Jets No. 3 WR spot
After splitting his rookie season between the Lions and Bengals, Williams appeared in 15 games with two starts for the Jets last season. In total, the Illinois product hauled in 26 catches for 193 yards. He also collected 34 rushing yards on three carries.
Williams was also New York's primary punt returner, and even had two punt return touchdowns on the season. He expected to keep that same role this season, but now it seems that he could be playing his way into a bigger role.
Cooper enters the NFL after tremendous four-year career with the Hoosiers. Last season, the Indianapolis native paced the Hoosiers in both catches (69) and receiving yards (937). He hauled in 13 touchdowns and added 74 yards and a touchdown on the ground. In total, Cooper racked up 115 catches for 1,798 yards and 22 touchdowns in his collegiate career.
Cooper is among the most dynamic young receivers out there. He is extremely athletic, has great hands, and owns an elite ability to rack up yards after the catch. As Williams continues to push him in training camp, it will be interesting to see how this battle shakes out in the end.
Add us as a preferred source on Google