Indiana’s Omar Cooper Jr. Declares for NFL Draft Following Historic Title Run

Indiana football reached unprecedented heights in 2025, capturing its first-ever national championship with a dramatic victory over Miami to cap an undefeated season. Led by head coach Curt Cignetti, the Hoosiers delivered a campaign for the ages, powered by a breakout offense and a resilient defense that stood tall when it mattered most.

Now, as the celebration begins to settle in Bloomington, attention quickly turns to the future—with some of the team’s top contributors making their way to the NFL. Just days after Heisman-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza officially declared for the draft, wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. has also announced his decision to go pro.

According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, Cooper is one of five Indiana players from the title-winning squad to submit written notice of their draft intentions. The junior wideout led the Hoosiers in receiving yards in 2025, capping off a breakout year that helped fuel Indiana’s championship run.

With both Mendoza and Cooper heading to the NFL, Cignetti and his staff will now begin the challenge of reloading an offense that proved to be one of the most dynamic in college football this past season.

1. Cooper’s Breakout Season Earns NFL Attention

Omar Cooper Jr. emerged as a true go-to option for the Indiana offense in 2025, finishing the year with 937 receiving yards—most on the team—and delivering in some of the program’s biggest moments. His ability to win contested catches, stretch the field, and make critical plays after the catch made him a focal point of the Hoosiers’ undefeated season. Throughout the year, Cooper’s chemistry with Mendoza was evident. Whether in the red zone or on third down, Cooper consistently found ways to create separation and move the chains, proving himself as a reliable and versatile target. Perhaps his most memorable contribution came in November against Penn State. With Indiana’s perfect season on the line, Cooper made a highlight-reel touchdown catch in the back of the end zone, securing the win and preserving the Hoosiers’ path to the College Football Playoff. That moment not only showcased his athleticism and body control, but also his poise in high-pressure situations—traits that NFL scouts are sure to value as the draft process unfolds.

2. NFL Outlook and Draft Stock

As he enters the draft pool, Cooper brings a skill set that appears well-suited for today’s professional game. His combination of size, speed, and dependable hands will likely draw interest from teams looking for an immediate contributor at wide receiver. While he may not yet carry the national recognition of some other draft-eligible receivers, his tape from 2025 and his role in a championship offense speak volumes. Scouts have praised his route-running improvement and his ability to make plays in traffic, both of which are key indicators of early NFL readiness. Given the high-profile nature of Indiana’s title run and Cooper’s starring role, it’s expected he’ll be selected in the early rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft. His performance in pre-draft workouts and interviews will likely determine just how high he climbs up draft boards. For any team in need of a polished, high-upside receiver with big-game experience, Cooper stands out as a prospect who could make an early impact at the next level.

3. Indiana Faces Key Offensive Turnover

With both Fernando Mendoza and Omar Cooper Jr. heading to the NFL, Indiana’s coaching staff is entering the offseason with significant offensive vacancies to address. Mendoza, a Heisman winner projected to go No. 1 overall, was the engine of the Hoosiers’ offense, and Cooper served as his most consistent playmaker on the outside. While replacing two such dynamic players is no small task, Indiana hopes to build on the momentum of its historic season. The program’s success in 2025 could aid recruiting efforts and make the school an attractive destination for potential transfer portal additions. Head coach Curt Cignetti, known for his detailed approach and player development, will now be tasked with crafting a new offensive identity while maintaining the standard that brought Indiana a national title. Young talent on the roster will be expected to step into larger roles as spring practices begin. Despite the personnel losses, Indiana remains well-positioned to contend again, with a strong culture, proven coaching, and a newfound status as a top-tier college football program.