Ole Miss Football Battling Alabama Crimson Tide, Florida State Seminoles for Top RB
The 2026 recruiting cycle is heating up, and one of the most coveted prospects is running back Derrek Cooper from Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Standing at 6’1″ and weighing 195 pounds, Cooper is ranked as the No. 2 running back nationally and the No. 23 overall prospect in the class . His combination of size, speed, and versatility has drawn the attention of powerhouse programs across the country.(Touchdown Alabama, On3)
Cooper has narrowed his list of potential destinations to a select group of schools: Alabama, Auburn, Florida, Florida State, Georgia, Miami, Ohio State, Ole Miss, Penn State, and Texas A&M . This top 10 list underscores the fierce competition for his commitment.(On3, On3)
Alabama has been proactive in its pursuit of Cooper. Head Coach Kalen DeBoer and his staff have made multiple visits to Cooper’s high school, emphasizing the program’s interest and commitment to securing his services . The Crimson Tide’s rich history of developing running backs and their consistent presence in national championships make them a formidable contender.
Florida State, under the guidance of Head Coach Mike Norvell, has also made significant strides in Cooper’s recruitment. The Seminoles’ offensive scheme, which has historically been favorable to running backs, and their strong relationships with recruits have positioned them as a serious threat to other programs .(Touchdown Alabama, SI)
Ole Miss, led by Coach DeBoer, is looking to make a splash in the 2026 recruiting class. The Rebels’ offensive system, which emphasizes a balanced attack and the utilization of running backs in various capacities, could be an appealing fit for Cooper. While they may not have the same national prominence as Alabama or Florida State, Ole Miss’s personalized approach and the opportunity for immediate playing time could sway Cooper’s decision.(SBNation.com)
During his junior season, Cooper showcased his all-around abilities by rushing for 905 yards and 13 touchdowns on 124 carries. Additionally, he contributed defensively with 46 total tackles, four pass deflections, and an interception, helping lead Chaminade-Madonna to a 15-2 record and a state title . His versatility allows him to be utilized in multiple facets of the game, making him an invaluable asset to any program.(SBNation.com, On3)
Cooper has already scheduled official visits to Auburn and Georgia, with plans to visit other schools in the coming months. These visits will be crucial in determining which program aligns best with his goals and aspirations. The coaching staffs’ ability to connect with Cooper and his family, as well as their vision for his role within the team, will play significant roles in his decision-making process.(On3)
As the recruitment process unfolds, Ole Miss faces stiff competition from established programs like Alabama and Florida State. However, the Rebels’ unique selling points—such as a personalized approach and the potential for early playing time—could make them an attractive option for Cooper. The coming months will be pivotal in determining where this elite running back will continue his football journey.
