Former Slippery Rock offensive lineman Joe Cooper remains on the path to the NFL after accepting an invitation to the New York Jets rookie minicamp following the 2026 NFL Draft, which concluded just this weekend. Although undrafted, the consensus All-American left tackle has secured a critical opportunity to prove he belongs at the professional level.
Cooper, who started 38 consecutive games for Slippery Rock over three seasons, faces the biggest test of his football career as he transitions to the pro ranks. The Jets minicamp, scheduled for May 8 through May 10, will determine if Cooper earns a contract with the Jets or draws interest from other teams.
From PSAC Standout to NFL Prospect
Throughout his senior year, Cooper captained an offensive line that allowed just 10 sacks, anchoring one of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference’s most productive offenses. His standout performances earned him multiple first-team honors and All-American accolades, highlighting his dominance at the collegiate level.
Despite interest from larger college programs earlier in his career, Cooper stayed loyal to Slippery Rock University and head coach Shawn Lutz. “He chose to stay here and finish his career at SRU this year, which tells you a lot about the kind of person and teammate he is,” Lutz said. “We know he is going to keep working hard to prove he can play at the next level.”
“Slippery Rock wanted me as a raw prospect out of high school. They poured blood, sweat and tears into me to develop me into the player and man I am today,” Cooper previously told The Rocket.
Jets Plan to Move Cooper to Interior Line
The Jets are considering transitioning Cooper from his collegiate left tackle role to an interior offensive lineman spot, a move that could help showcase his versatility. Wearing a Jets logo instead of Slippery Rock’s white and green colors, Cooper will now represent a growing Slippery Rock football legacy producing professional talent after recent NFL hopefuls like Kyle Sheets and Henry Litwin.
This minicamp invite marks a significant milestone for both Cooper and the Slippery Rock program, enhancing its national profile for developing NFL-ready players.
What’s Next for Joe Cooper?
As the Jets rookie minicamp approaches, Cooper’s focus is clear: perform at an elite level and earn a spot in the NFL. The camp runs from May 8 to May 10, offering a narrow window for Cooper to seize this defining moment and keep his NFL dream alive.
This opportunity is more than a chance to join a team; it’s a testament to perseverance and a direct reflection of the hard work poured into his development at Slippery Rock. Fans in Ohio and across the nation will be watching closely as Cooper seeks to make his mark in professional football.
