Derrek Cooper, a freshman running back for the Texas Longhorns, left the recent showdown with Texas State after suffering an ankle injury that will sideline him for the foreseeable future.
The injury occurred early in the second quarter when Cooper carried the ball twice for six yards before being helped off the field at halftime, ending his brief contribution and depriving the Longhorns of a player who had been projected to add depth in short‑yardage situations.
Head coach Steve Sarkisian described the ailment simply as an ankle issue, emphasizing that the team will monitor Cooper’s condition closely as he works toward recovery.
Rasheem Biles, a standout linebacker for Texas, lauded Cooper as an ‘all‑around’ back, noting his size, speed and the growth he has shown on the field, while scouting director Andrew Ivins of 247Sports rated him a four‑star prospect in the 2026 class for his north‑south running ability and screen‑game productivity.
A Promising Freshman Faces Setback
Although Cooper was slated to serve as the Longhorns’ short‑yardage back, his limited usage before the injury meant the team relied on other backs such as James Simon and Ryan Niblett to shoulder the workload, a shift that contributed to Texas’ 38 rushing attempts for 156 yards and three touchdowns.
The setback not only removes a versatile piece from a roster eyeing a College Football Playoff run, but also forces the coaching staff to adjust its offensive scheme, potentially curtailing the impact of a player whose scouting profile highlighted his flexibility and screen‑game effectiveness.