Green Bay Packers linebacker Edgerrin Cooper has officially arrived as a top player at his position. In voting compiled of coaches, executives and scouts by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Cooper ranked as the No. 9 overall off-ball linebacker in the NFL entering 2026.
This was Cooper’s debut on the top 10 list. His highest ranking was fourth overall, suggesting some inside the NFL see him as an elite player.
From a veteran defensive coach: “He has the size, speed and run-and-hit ability that few have…He can really go.”
Through his first two seasons, Cooper produced 205 total tackles, 17 tackles for loss, 4.0 sacks, eight pass breakups, three forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, one interception and 10 quarterback hits. After finishing sixth in NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year voting in 2024, Cooper became a full-time player in 2025 and produced a career high 118 tackles while remaining an impactful player against the run, in coverage and as a blitzer.
Counting the playoffs, Cooper had 50 total stops (or tackles creating a failure for the offense) in 17 games. He also had 12 pressures and didn’t allow a touchdown pass into his coverage.
The arrow is pointed straight up for Cooper, who could establish himself as one of the NFL’s truly elite linebackers in 2026, his third overall season and first season playing under Jonathan Gannon.
In terms of the rankings, former Packers linebacker Quay Walker, who left for Las Vegas in free agency, was an honorable mention pick. His replacement in Green Bay, veteran Zaire Franklin, received votes in the top 10 but did not end up among the honorable mentions.
This article originally appeared on Packers Wire: Packers LB Edgerrin Cooper makes debut among NFL’s top 10 linebackers
Reporting by Zach Kruse, Packers Wire / Packers Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Zach Kruse, Packers Wire | USA TODAY Network
