Ernest Cooper knows Florida State produces a “ton of great talent”

Ernest “RJ” Cooper IV is a 6’4 215 pound weak-side defensive end from Arlington, TX.

The Class of 2022 prospect attends Martin High School and has a 93 rating (4*) from 247 Sports. They consider him the 76th best player in America (6th best WDE and 10th best player in Texas).

Cooper IV already holds offers from Alabama, Auburn, Baylor, Georgia Tech, LSU, Nebraska, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss, Oregon, Stanford, TCU, Texas, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, and USC, among others.

In early May, he was offered by Florida State:

TN caught up with Cooper shortly after the offer to learn more:

What was your reaction to the FSU offer?

“It was a shock—this whole recruiting process is still very new to me, but I was glad that the coaches have some interest in me.”

Who called, and what was that conversation like?

“It was Coach Thomsen, and he told me that he [sees] how great a player I can become and how I can elevate my game to the next level at FSU.”

What do you know about Florida State?

“I know they produce a ton of great talent, especially since one of the greatest DBs has come out of that school.”

Do you plan to visit FSU when the Dead Period’s over?

“Hopefully—there’ll need to be cautionary measures for anyone trying to go anywhere after this pandemic.”

What other schools do you hope to visit?

“Probably local schools for right now like Texas, TCU, and Texas A&M.”

How would you describe your game?

“I would say my strength lies in my agility and quickness to get off on the snap of the ball.”

What player(s) do you look up to/model your game after?

“I want to increase my strength so I can toss tackles left and right like Reggie white, one of, if not the best defensive lineman.”

What are the biggest things you’re looking for in a school?

“I’m looking to see if they have a great biomedical science major.

The game of football can only be played for so long, so I need to be able to have a career after football.”