Five-Star Running Back Derrek Cooper Commits Texas Over Miami, Georgia, Ohio State

Derrek Cooper, a five-star running back from Hollywood (Fla.) Chaminade-Madonna and one of the top prospects in the 2026 recruiting class, committed to the Texas Longhorns over offers from Miami, Georgia, Florida State, Ohio State, and others. Cooper, ranked No. 29 nationally and No. 2 in Florida by 247Sports, is a versatile player known for his mix of power and speed, having excelled both offensively and defensively in high school while also competing in track. His commitment is a significant win for Texas, bolstering their recruiting class and helping them move up to No. 5 in team rankings, while dealing a blow to Miami, Georgia, and Ohio State, all of whom were top contenders for his signature. Miami, a traditional pipeline for Chaminade-Madonna players, lost Cooper despite their long-standing recruiting efforts and the program's recent success in sending athletes to UM. Georgia and Ohio State will look to other prospects to strengthen their classes, with Georgia still pursuing other top running backs like Savion Hiter, and Ohio State maintaining commitments at the position despite missing Cooper. Cooper's choice highlights Texas' recent recruiting successes, including flipping other high-profile players from rival programs.