Is Indiana Star WR Omar Cooper Jr. a Perfect Fit for the Los Angeles Chargers?

With the Los Angeles Chargers yet to bring back veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen for a 13th season, adding another playmaker to a position group that includes Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, Tre Harris, Derius Davis and KeAndre Lambert-Smith remains one of the Bolts’ top priorities.

Holding the 22nd overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, Indiana star wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. could be an ideal selection for Los Angeles if the opportunity arises.

The 22-year-old is fresh off a national championship with the Hoosiers and was named Second-Team All-Big Ten in 2025 after hauling in 69 receptions on 91 targets for 937 yards (494 yards after contact) and 13 touchdowns. Cooper also posted an 87.4 offensive grade from Pro Football Focus across 764 snaps, ranking 15th out of 1,075 qualifying wide receivers, while earning an 87.8 overall grade and an 85.9 receiving grade.

Cooper recently participated in the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, measuring in at six-foot, 199 pounds with 30 1/4-inch arms and 9 5/8-inch hands. He ran a 4.42-second 40-yard dash, a 1.55-second 10-yard split and recorded a 37-inch vertical jump.

According to Next Gen Stats, his performance earned a total score of 80, ranking fourth among participating wide receivers. His production score of 81 ranked third, while his estimated athleticism score of 76 ranked 19th.

While Cooper played a full-time slot role this past season for the Hoosiers, he has the versatility to thrive in an expanded role. He brings a physical, tough mentality and consistently fights through tackles to generate yards after the catch. However, his effort must improve as a run blocker. NFL analyst Lance Zierlein has compared his play style to former San Francisco 49ers and Washington Commanders star Deebo Samuel.

For the Chargers, Cooper would fill a clear need as a reliable option in tight coverage, giving franchise QB Justin Herbert another target who can win when plays break down. He also brings above-average yards-after-the-catch ability, something the offense has lacked consistency in over recent seasons. Cooper could provide another dependable option who can finish plays and help keep drives alive.

While positions like guard and defensive line could still be in play for the Bolts, using the 22nd pick on Cooper would make sense for Los Angeles given the importance of surrounding Herbert with a reliable supporting cast. Adding a playmaker who can contribute immediately while still offering long-term upside provides strong value.