Auburn Gains Ground with Five-Star Running Back Derrek Cooper
Auburn University is making a strong impression on Derrek Cooper, a highly sought-after five-star running back from Hollywood, Fla. [[1]] Cooper’s connection to former Auburn running back Shaun Shivers, now a graduate assistant at Eastern Michigan, and his growing relationship with Auburn’s running backs coach Derrick Nix, are giving the Tigers an edge in the competitive recruiting landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Legacy Connection: Shaun Shivers,Cooper’s coach and former Auburn RB,speaks highly of the program.
- Coaching Impact: Cooper is building a strong rapport with Auburn running backs coach Derrick Nix.
- Official Visit: Cooper’s recent visit to Auburn marked his third time on campus.
- Decision Timeline: Cooper plans to make his final decision in August after visiting several other top schools.
The Shivers Effect: A Tiger’s Legacy
Shaun Shivers, a former Auburn running back and current graduate assistant at Eastern Michigan, has significantly influenced Cooper’s perception of Auburn. Shivers, who coached Cooper at Chaminade Madonna, has instilled a deep appreciation for the Auburn program.
He came from here, he was a big part of Auburn. Just learning from him and his thoughts on Auburn, it’s grate.He speaks highly on Auburn.
Derrek Cooper
Did you know?
Shaun Shivers played for Auburn from 2018 to 2021, contributing both as a runner and receiver. His experiance provides valuable insight for young players like Cooper.
Derrick Nix: A Passionate Mentor
Cooper has also developed a strong connection with Auburn running backs coach Derrick Nix. The coach’s passion for the game and commitment to player progress have resonated with the young running back.
Coach Nix is a great coach. I can see in his eyes that he loves the game, he loves passion. It’d be great to learn from a coach like that.
Derrek Cooper
Inside Cooper’s Auburn Visit
Cooper’s recent visit to Auburn provided him with valuable insights into the program and its culture.He also had the opportunity to connect with other recruits,including Rivals100 running back Jae Lamar.
It was great. He’s real cool. He’s from Georgia, I’ve been keeping an eye on a lot of backs.It was good to meet him and bond with him.
Derrek Cooper
Pro Tip
Official visits are crucial for recruits to experience campus life, meet coaches and players, and envision their future at a particular school.
The Road Ahead: Official Visits and Decision Timeline
Cooper’s recruitment is far from over. He has official visits scheduled to several other top programs, including Miami (May 30), Alabama (June 6), Georgia (June 13), Florida State (June 15), and Ohio State (june 20). He intends to make a final decision in August.
When choosing a school, Cooper emphasizes the importance of player development, early playing opportunities, and program tradition.
Development plays a big part. I’m trying to get to the next level. I want to play early, I want to get on the field. I’m going to put in the work, so I just want that opportunity to play early. Tradition, too, is a big part.
Derrek Cooper
While Cooper doesn’t name any favorites, he acknowledges that Auburn is a top contender.
They set the bar pretty high.It was a good OV. It was the first one,so I’ve got plenty more to take.
Derrek Cooper
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is Derrek Cooper?
- Derrek Cooper is a five-star running back prospect from Hollywood, Fla., in the 2026 recruiting class.
- Who is Shaun Shivers?
- Shaun Shivers is a former Auburn running back and Cooper’s coach at Chaminade Madonna. He is now a graduate assistant at Eastern Michigan.
- When will Cooper make his decision?
- Cooper plans to make his final decision in August.
- What factors are important to Cooper in choosing a school?
- Development, early playing time, and tradition are key factors for Cooper.
