Clemson Football Recruiting: Meet Zerrick Cooper

Let’s take a look at Zerrick Cooper, the quarterback prospect out of Jonesboro, Georgia.

The Clemson Tiger Class of 2016 already has a total of eight commits as we hit mid-May. There are still several prospects in the nation that Coach Swinney and his staff will attempt to get pledges from in the upcoming months as they begin their senior season of football. Over the rest of May and the beginning of June, however, we are going to take a look at these eight men and what they could do when they arrive on campus next fall. Today, we will take a look at the Jonesboro, Georgia native, Zerrick Cooper.

Zerrick Cooper is one of the top quarterbacks in the nation and even though he is listed as a four-star by most services, he has the talent to be a five-star and is one of the best of this class. Cooper is the top dual-threat quarterback prospect in the nation and he will join a very talented quarterback group next fall, but still has the ability to compete once he gets into the program.

Cooper is able to find the open receiver and does a great job looking off defensive backs before throwing the ball. His scrambling ability and pocket presence is off the charts and, because of that great speed, he is able to make plays and keep drives alive. What is most impressive is how he keeps his eyes down-field when he is scrambling. Many times, when  a young quarterback gets rushed out of the pocket, they look to run without looking for any open receivers, but he does not; He stays patient and poised, which is a great sign for Tiger fans.

Another strength Cooper possesses is the natural arm strength. He can complete some long throws, which opens and expands the defense. Cooper is just what Clemson fans need. He will bring more competition to the quarterback position once Deshaun Watson has left and he is the type of guy that can lead the Clemson offense with poise and confidence.

Zerrick Cooper, QB, Jonesboro, Georgia

Strengths: Speed, Pocket Presence, Scrambling Ability, Arm Strength, Accuracy, Confidence

Needs Work: Strength, Explosiveness

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