Joe Cooper Moves From Undrafted Rookie to New York Jets Rookie Minicamp Invitee
Former Slippery Rock offensive lineman Joe Cooper refused to let going undrafted in the 2026 NFL Draft end his professional football aspirations. Just hours after the draft wrapped, Cooper accepted a coveted rookie minicamp invitation from the New York Jets, setting the stage for a critical opportunity to prove himself at the NFL level.
Cooper, a consensus All-American left tackle known for starting 38 consecutive games over three seasons at Slippery Rock, will now attempt the challenging transition from college standout to NFL roster hopeful. The Jets plan to try Cooper at an interior offensive line position—testing his versatility and skill in this high-stakes environment.
Jets Minicamp Kicks Off May 8 as Cooper Hunts NFL Contract
With the Jets’ rookie minicamp scheduled to begin May 8 and run through May 10, Cooper faces a rapid, high-pressure trial. His performance in the span of three days could determine whether he lands a contract with New York or catches eyes from other NFL teams seeking offensive line depth.
Cooper’s rise is a testament to dedication and loyalty. Despite strong recruitment interest from larger programs in previous seasons, he chose to stay at Slippery Rock under head coach Shawn Lutz. “That tells you a lot about the kind of person and teammate he is,” Lutz said. “We know he’s going to keep working hard to prove he can play at the next level.”
In Cooper’s own words, Slippery Rock shaped him both athletically and personally. “They poured blood, sweat, and tears into me to develop me into the player and man I am today,” he told The Rocket earlier. This commitment has paid off with numerous honors including All-American and multiple first-team accolades.
Slippery Rock’s Growing NFL Pipeline Highlighted by Cooper’s Opportunity
Cooper’s emerging prospect adds to Slippery Rock’s evolving reputation as a source of professional-caliber talent. Recent examples like Kyle Sheets and Henry Litwin have paved the way for smaller programs to gain national recognition, spotlighting athletes ready to compete at the highest level.
Now wearing a Jets helmet instead of the familiar white and green of Slippery Rock, Cooper carries the hopes of his alma mater and a community proud of his achievements.
What’s Next for Joe Cooper?
If Cooper impresses during the Jets rookie minicamp, he could secure a contract and become part of the Jets’ depth chart heading into training camp. Even if New York doesn’t sign him immediately, the exposure opens doors across the league as teams look closely at undrafted talent in the lead-up to roster cuts and the NFL regular season.
For football fans watching from California and across the country, Cooper’s story is a compelling chapter of perseverance and grit. As collegiate stars fight to carve out NFL careers, his journey underscores the dynamic landscape of talent scouting beyond the big-name schools.
The 2026 NFL Draft may be over, but for Joe Cooper, the hardest fight is just beginning—and it starts with a Jets minicamp tryout this week that could change everything.
