Omar Cooper Jr. Leads Indiana Football Against Illinois

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — Omar Cooper Jr. has emerged as a key player for Indiana University football as they prepare to face Illinois on Saturday.

With the departure of Myles Price and Ke'Shawn Williams, Indiana faced a challenge in filling the slot receiver position. Initially, the Hoosiers looked to the transfer portal, securing Tyler Morris from Michigan. However, a knee injury to Morris left the team again searching for a solution.

Head coach Curt Cignetti brought in Jonathan Brady from Cal after the spring portal window. Meanwhile, Cooper and teammate Elijah Sarratt honed their versatility during spring practices. Cooper has now taken center stage as Indiana’s starting slot receiver in the 2025 season.

<p“He’s got a lot of talent,” Cignetti said during his radio show Thursday. “He’s explosive and made big plays last year, but we needed him to be more consistent. We’ve moved him to the slot where he’s had many opportunities.”

As the Hoosiers prepare to take on No. 9 Illinois, Cooper has already made his mark. He leads the Big Ten with four touchdown receptions and is third in receiving yards with 299 on 13 catches.

Much of his impressive start came from one game against Indiana State, where he recorded 10 receptions for 207 yards and four touchdowns, earning Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week honors.

Cooper isn’t solely a slot receiver; he’s also played outside, racking up 50 snaps in that position in the first three weeks of the season. His ability to adapt has enhanced his gameplay.

<p“I believe he’s taken to the slot well because of the added opportunities,” Cignetti said. “When you’re in the slot, you have a higher chance of getting the ball.”

Although Cooper faced a setback in the season opener against Old Dominion, where he dropped a long pass, he quickly bounced back. Cignetti praised Cooper’s performance in practice and his growth on the field.

<p“As the game against Illinois approaches, Cooper's versatility has allowed E.J. Williams Jr. to take on a larger role outside,” Cignetti added. “He was unstoppable against Indiana State. We are looking forward to seeing how he performs against Illinois.”