As the 2025 NFL Draft concluded, Darius Cooper found himself waiting in vain for his name to be called. After a notable five-season career at Tarleton State, where he amassed over 3,185 receiving yards and 29 touchdowns, Cooper went undrafted, leaving him to pursue his dream of playing in the NFL through free agency.
Despite the oversight from 31 other teams, the Philadelphia Eagles recognized Cooper's talent and signed him. This decision proved fruitful as Cooper showcased his abilities during the preseason, making six receptions for 82 yards, which included a 20-yard touchdown catch against the Cincinnati Bengals. Although his rookie season saw him cool off a bit, he still contributed significantly over 13 regular-season games, recording six first downs and a total of 92 receiving yards.
Quarterback Jalen Hurts has taken notice of Cooper’s work ethic and potential. When asked about Cooper's capabilities, Hurts expressed his belief in the young receiver's growth trajectory. "I think he’s pretty good already, I think he’s going to continue to grow. I can’t make you a promise and say that he’s going to be XYZ, but I just think he’s going to continue to develop into the player that he’s shown he is," Hurts stated. He praised Cooper's strong hands and his proficiency with deep passes, attributing these skills to his time playing at a smaller college in Texas.
Hurts emphasized Cooper's tenacity and competitive nature, qualities that are essential for success in the NFL. As the Eagles prepare for the upcoming season, Cooper may find himself in a more prominent role, especially following the departure of A.J. Brown. However, he will still face competition for playing time from teammates such as DeVonta Smith, Makai Lemon, Dontayvion Wicks, and Hollywood Brown.
Fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how Cooper performs as the Eagles kick off their preseason against the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday night, with the game scheduled to start at 7:00 p.m. EST. This matchup will provide an early opportunity for Cooper to further demonstrate his skills and solidify his place on the roster.
Overall, Darius Cooper's journey from undrafted free agent to a potential key player for the Eagles reflects the unpredictable nature of the NFL. With support from teammates like Jalen Hurts, Cooper aims to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.
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