ESPN’s NFL expert has identified Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice as the ideal professional comparison for Indiana Hoosiers standout Omar Cooper Jr. The comparison highlights similarities in play style and production that have elevated Cooper’s profile ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Cooper has developed into a reliable target at Indiana, showcasing a combination of physicality and consistency that mirrors traits seen in Rice. His ability to work through contact and secure catches in traffic has made him a dependable option in the passing game.
Indiana Hoosiers, Omar Cooper Jr.
Indiana’s Omar Cooper Jr. (3) can’t pull in the catch during the Indiana versus Ohio State Big Ten Championship football game at Lucas Oil Stadium on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025.
Rice established himself in the NFL as a receiver who thrives on timing routes and yards after the catch, and those same qualities have appeared in Cooper’s game. Cooper has demonstrated an ability to turn short receptions into meaningful gains, adding value beyond initial route execution.
The comparison also extends to their approach as competitors, with both players showing a willingness to engage physically against defenders. Cooper’s strength and balance allow him to maintain control through contact, a trait that has translated well for Rice at the professional level.
ESPN’s NFL Expert Names Rashee Rice as Pro Comp for Indiana Hoosiers’ Omar Cooper Jr.
Kansas CIty Chiefs, Rashee Rice, NFL
Nov 23, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice (4) takes the field against the Indianapolis Colts for warm ups prior to a game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
Cooper was recently linked to Rice as his pro comparison. This is detailed more in an analysis by Field Yates for ESPN.
Cooper had a breakout season for Indiana in 2025, hauling in 13 receiving touchdowns. Over 50% of his receiving yards in 2025 were yards the catch, the area of his game that best mirrors Rice’s skill set. Cooper does an excellent job of setting up blocks. He’s patient, has good vision and shows the overall contact balance to chew up yards.
For teams evaluating wide receiver prospects, the Rice comparison provides a framework for understanding Cooper’s potential impact. It suggests a player who may not rely solely on speed but instead excels through positioning, awareness and toughness.
As the draft approaches, Cooper’s trajectory continues to trend upward with increased attention from scouts. If his development continues, the parallels to Rice could become even more evident as he transitions to the next level.