Cooper's Rise: Packers' Linebacker Gaining National Attention

0:00On March 26, Green Bay Packer's linebacker, Edger and Cooper, is starting to get the national attention he deserves. One of the league's top players at the position, Levante David of the Teva Bay Buccaneers, recently singled him out for his physical style and playmaking ability. David also gave a nod to Cooper's new teaming, Zaire Franklin, calling both guys solid contributors. The Packers picked up Franklin in a trade earlier this month from the Indianapolis Colts. He led the league and tackles two years back and made the pro-bowl then, though his last season was a down year. Together with Cooper, they could strengthen Green Bay's linebacker group right away. Cooper wrapped up his second season on the all-rookie team from the year before, with 118 tackles, four tackles for loss, four pass, breakups, and two forced fumbles. His overall grade ranked 17th among linebackers, and he was 7th in coverage, showing real growth from his rookie year when he started just. Four games to 16 last time out.

1:02The defense noticeably improved with him on the field, crediting him with 45 stops overall. His speed stands out, making him one of the most athletic defenders on the roster outside of Michael Parsons. Fans saw clearly when he stuffed Detroit's Jermire Gibbs, holding him to 19 yards on nine carries in one key match-up. As Cooper keeps building, expect more eyes on him, league wide, solidifying his spot as a cornerstone for the Packer's defense moving forward.