Dalton Cooper, OT, Oklahoma State
Size:
Height: 6’5” (v) | Weight: 312 lbs (v)
Accomplishments:
Third-Team All-Sun Belt (2021)
“Dalton Cooper is an uber-experienced tackle who showcases the blend of size and technicality to add depth to an NFL offensive line.”
Strengths:
Quick feet on second-level climbs to intersect smaller targets
Utilization of length
Hips and flexibility to modify body positioning
Experience
Concerns:
Anchor
Play strength
Athleticism
Issues countering power in pass pro
Film Analysis:
Dalton Cooper is an uber-experienced tackle who showcases the blend of size and technicality to add depth to an NFL offensive line. Aligned primarily at left tackle, Cooper’s first year in the Big 12 showcased a lineman worth keeping an eye on as a later-round selection after transferring from Texas State.
In pass pro, Cooper isn’t the lightest on his feet nor does he have the ability to rapidly redirect or counter speed and power with ease. But overall, he plays with a solid base and good balance to stymie pass rushers. Cooper uses his length well but has a habit of placing his hands on pass rushers instead of punching and establishing his hands inside the striking area. He does a nice job of IDing stunts and twists and is rarely off-balance when having to adjust his frame to square-up angles. Showcases quick footwork to counter speed to his outside shoulder, but can be inconsistent. Anchor is fine at this point in time, but defenders that generate large amounts of force and play with leverage can give Cooper issues. He allowed three sacks on 576 pass-pro snaps in 2023.
As a run blocker, Cooper thrives in certain areas. Primary gap blocker that lives on a vertical plane, but has experience in space as a puller. However, Cooper can be classified more as a climber at this point. While he doesn’t overpower opponents, Cooper does a nice job of establishing himself between him and his gap, presenting vacant gaps for ball-carriers to attack. Cooper has quick hips to flip and seal varying body types and he will often lay his frame on opponents to minimize windows for defenders to locate the running back. Has a strong lower half that can create more push in the ground game. Would like to see Cooper use his legs and drive through opponents stemming from the ground up.
Concerns remain about his ability to consistently counter power-laden rushers both head-up and on stunts. Can be pushed back at contact. Cooper’s athleticism also remains limited. Frame looks the part but he has room to get stronger—which should help both in the run/pass.
Overall, Cooper’s transition to the Big 12 was smooth in 2023. For 2024, it’s about continuing to improve in both his technique and fundamental strength as he eyes a move up draft boards. Currently, Cooper projects as a potential sixth man in an offensive line room with the technique and versatility to compete for snaps at both left and right tackle.
Prospect Projection: Day 3 — Role Specific Contributor
Written by: Ryan Fowler
Exposures: Oklahoma (2023), BYU (2023), Texas A&M (2023)
