Derrek Cooper, a highly coveted five-star running back from Chaminade-Madonna High School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, recently wrapped up an impactful visit to Auburn University’s Junior Day. It marked Cooper’s second trip to Auburn, and the experience only solidified his positive perception of the program. At 6’1″ and 200 pounds, Cooper is the No. 2 running back in the 2026 class according to On3 Industry Rankings, a testament to his blend of athleticism, power, and versatility.
Cooper has already caught the eye of top-tier programs across the nation, but Auburn appears to be firmly in the mix for his commitment. Speaking about his experience, Cooper shared, “Auburn is among my top schools,” a statement that underscores the growing relationship between the elite prospect and the Tigers.
### A Memorable Visit
During his time on campus, Cooper was able to connect with Auburn’s coaching staff, explore the facilities, and get a deeper feel for the university’s football culture. He noted the energy surrounding the program and appreciated the level of attention he received from the coaching staff.
A key highlight of Cooper’s visit was his interaction with running backs coach Derrick Nix. Known for his ability to develop top-tier talent, Nix has played a crucial role in building a strong rapport with Cooper. “Coach Nix is a cool coach,” Cooper remarked, emphasizing the trust and connection he feels with the veteran coach.
The facilities and football operations center also left a lasting impression on Cooper. Auburn’s investment in state-of-the-art amenities, combined with its passionate fan base, showcased the university’s commitment to building a winning football program. For a player like Cooper, who thrives on the details of player development and game preparation, Auburn’s infrastructure offers plenty of appeal.
Cooper’s Recruitment So Far
Cooper’s recruitment has been a whirlwind, with nearly every powerhouse program vying for his attention. His physical tools and skill set make him one of the most dynamic playmakers in the 2026 class. As a running back, Cooper has the rare ability to both pound the ball between the tackles and excel in open space. His speed, vision, and pass-catching ability add another dimension to his game, making him a perfect fit for modern offensive schemes.
While Auburn has positioned itself well, schools like Georgia, Alabama, and Ohio State are also heavily involved in his recruitment. For now, though, Auburn’s efforts to create a family-like atmosphere and emphasize player development seem to be resonating with Cooper.
What’s Next for Cooper?
With the spring recruiting season heating up, Cooper plans to continue exploring his options. His visit to Auburn was just the latest step in what promises to be a highly competitive recruitment process. Moving forward, Cooper will look to balance the relationships he’s building with coaching staffs, the opportunities for early playing time, and the ability to compete at the highest level.
Auburn’s pitch to Cooper revolves around its tradition of producing elite running backs and the chance to become the next in a storied lineage. If the Tigers continue to build on the foundation they’ve established with him, they could emerge as a serious contender for one of the most electrifying prospects in the 2026 class.
For now, Cooper remains focused on his junior season and the recruiting process ahead. But as his visit to Auburn showed, the Tigers have made a significant impression on one of the nation’s top talents.