Oklahoma State has extended an early offer to 2028 defensive back Cooper Cranston of Holcomb, Kansas. The versatile athlete has already earned Power Four interest after posting over 2,000 offensive yards, eight interceptions and a state-record performance on the track.
Is Cranston a prospect you think OSU can keep interested?
Eric Morris and the Oklahoma State coaching staff are already looking ahead to the Class of 2028, extending an offer to defensive back Cooper Cranston out of Holcomb, Kansas.
Cranston is beginning to attract attention after an impressive sophomore season, with Oklahoma State becoming his second Power Four offer alongside in-state Kansas.
The recruit also turned heads at the Under Armour Next Camp, posting a 4.42-second 40-yard dash and a 4.23 shuttle time that showcased the speed and athleticism that have made him an early recruiting target.
The 6-foot, 192-pound prospect is listed as an athlete/safety, but his versatility is what makes him especially intriguing. Cranston contributed on both sides of the ball during his sophomore campaign, accounting for more than 2,000 yards of offense while also recording eight interceptions on defense.
That athleticism has also been on display during track season. Cranston set the Kansas Class 3A state record in the 110-meter hurdles, further showcasing the explosiveness and speed that have attracted college recruiters.
What makes Cranston such an intriguing prospect is his versatility. While many recruits are projected to a single position early in the recruiting process, Cranston has shown the ability to impact games in multiple ways. His success on offense demonstrates his playmaking ability with the ball in his hands, while the eight interceptions highlight the instincts and ball skills that college coaches covet in the secondary.
As he continues to develop physically, programs will have to determine whether his future is at safety, cornerback or even another position altogether.\
With two years of high school football still ahead of him, Cranston's recruitment is only beginning. That's why Oklahoma State's early involvement could prove important as more schools continue to evaluate one of Kansas' rising prospects.
Recruiting the Class of 2028 is all about relationships, and the Cowboys' offer gives them an opportunity to establish one before larger programs become heavily involved. If Cranston's junior season mirrors what he accomplished as a sophomore, it would not be surprising to see additional Power Four programs enter the race.
Speed, instincts and versatility are exactly the traits that fit what defensive coordinator Skyler Cassity wants to build in Stillwater.
At just 31 years old, Cassity is one of the youngest coordinators in the country and has already shown an ability to improve defenses. Last season at North Texas, his unit allowed nearly 90 fewer yards per game and reduced opponents' scoring average from 31.4 points per game to 24.9.
While there is still a long way to go before signing day arrives, Oklahoma State has made it clear it sees plenty of potential in Cranston. The offer may be early, but if his development continues on its current path, the Cowboys could find themselves battling a much longer list of schools for one of Kansas' fastest-rising prospects.
