Eagles Projected to Land 13-TD 'Godsend' Big Ten WR in 1st Round

NFL.com's Chad Reuter predicts the Philadelphia Eagles will select Indiana University WR Omar Cooper Jr. in the 1st round.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 5:55pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football player in mid-catch, with sharp planes of color and form representing the dynamic action of the play.A cubist interpretation of a wide receiver making a play, hinting at the Eagles' potential plans to replace star wideout A.J. Brown.Today in Pittsburgh

The Philadelphia Eagles are reportedly hosting Indiana University wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. for an official pre-draft visit, fueling speculation they could select him in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Cooper, who led the Hoosiers to an undefeated season and national championship in 2025, is projected by NFL.com's Chad Reuter to be a potential replacement for 3-time All-Pro wideout A.J. Brown if the Eagles trade him this offseason.

Why it matters

The Eagles' interest in Cooper suggests they may be preparing for the potential departure of star receiver A.J. Brown, who has been the subject of trade rumors this offseason. Selecting Cooper, a physically dominant receiver who excels after the catch, could help offset the loss of Brown's production.

The details

Cooper, a 6-foot, 199-pound receiver, had a standout 2025 season at Indiana, catching 69 passes for 937 yards and 14 total touchdowns. He impressed at the NFL Scouting Combine with a 4.42-second 40-yard dash. NFL draft analyst Lance Zierlein has compared Cooper to former NFL All-Pro Deebo Samuel, praising his strength, acceleration, and ability to create yards after the catch.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 23-25 in Pittsburgh.
  • The Eagles hosted Cooper for an official pre-draft visit in early March.

The players

Omar Cooper Jr.

A wide receiver from Indiana University who led the Hoosiers to an undefeated season and national championship in 2025, catching 69 passes for 937 yards and 14 touchdowns.

A.J. Brown

A 3-time NFL All-Pro wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles who has been the subject of trade rumors this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“Cooper's strength, speed and elite body control should allow him to make a smooth transition to the Eagles' offense as a rookie. He'd be a godsend in the event of an A.J. Brown trade.”

— Chad Reuter, NFL.com Analyst

“Omar Cooper Jr. is a really good player, especially after the catch he is so dangerous. He would be a fun addition. Eagles looking at first-round wide receiver prospects . Preparing for the potential exit of A.J. Brown? I expect them to bring in other early-round wideouts for pre-draft visits.”

— Cayden Steele, Eagles Reporter

What’s next

The Eagles will continue to evaluate Cooper and other top wide receiver prospects ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, which takes place April 23-25 in Pittsburgh.

The takeaway

The Eagles' interest in Cooper suggests they may be preparing for the potential departure of star receiver A.J. Brown, and Cooper's physical playing style and production could make him an ideal replacement if Brown is traded.