Cooper Schmidt is an athletic offensive line prospect from Dripping Springs High School who possesses one of the more intriguing developmental skill sets among Texas interior offensive linemen in the 2027 class. At 6-foot-4 and 260 pounds, Schmidt combines length, mobility, and movement skills with a frame that still has significant room for physical development.
What immediately stands out on film is his ability to move in space. Whether pulling across the formation, climbing to the second level, or locating defenders in the screen game, Schmidt consistently displays the athleticism that modern offenses covet in interior offensive linemen. While he still needs additional mass and strength, his movement ability provides a strong foundation for future growth.
Player Overview
Schmidt projects as a developmental guard or interior offensive lineman whose greatest value currently comes from his athletic profile and versatility within movement-based run schemes. His ability to operate effectively in space makes him an ideal fit for offenses that utilize pulls, traps, screens, and second-level blocking concepts.
As his frame continues to mature and his functional strength improves, Schmidt has the potential to develop into a highly effective collegiate offensive lineman capable of contributing in multiple offensive systems.
Movement Skills
Movement ability is the defining trait of Schmidt’s game.
For a player his size, he moves exceptionally well laterally and displays the quick feet necessary to execute a variety of blocking assignments. His ability to pull and trap is particularly impressive, as he reaches landmarks efficiently and arrives under control.
Schmidt also shows excellent range when climbing to the second level. He locates linebackers effectively, works through traffic smoothly, and demonstrates the body control necessary to operate in space. His athleticism gives offensive coordinators flexibility in how he can be utilized within the run game.
While his movement skills are advanced, continued development of pass-protection footwork will be important. At times, he can become too stationary in protection, allowing defenders opportunities to challenge his edges.
Physicality
Schmidt plays with a high level of effort and steadily improving physicality.
He consistently keeps his feet driving after contact and works to sustain blocks throughout the rep. While he is not yet an overpowering presence at the point of attack, his willingness to compete and finish plays is encouraging.
As he continues adding functional strength and mass, his ability to generate movement against stronger defensive linemen should improve significantly. The recent film already shows positive growth in both aggression and overall play strength.
Football Intelligence
Schmidt demonstrates a strong understanding of offensive line play, particularly within the run game.
He shows awareness when identifying second-level defenders, understands how to work movement blocks, and actively looks for opportunities to create additional running lanes. His processing speed allows him to handle defensive movement effectively and remain productive even when plays break structure.
His intelligence and comfort operating in space further enhance his value as a developmental interior lineman.
Strengths
- Excellent movement skills for an interior offensive lineman
- Quick feet and strong lateral mobility
- Effective puller and trap blocker
- Outstanding second-level range
- Active hands and feet after contact
- High-effort player who consistently looks for work
- Athletic frame with significant developmental upside
- Fits well in modern movement-based run schemes
Areas for Development
- Continue adding functional mass and strength
- Improve pass protection foot activity
- Avoid becoming static in pass sets
- Develop greater power at the point of attack
- Continue refining overall technique and leverage
Intangibles
- Motor/Effort Level: High-motor lineman who consistently works through the whistle and actively seeks additional blocks once his primary assignment is secured.
- Competitiveness: Displays a competitive nature and improving physicality. His willingness to engage defenders and finish plays is a positive indicator for long-term development.
Overall Evaluation
Cooper Schmidt is an athletic developmental offensive line prospect whose movement skills and versatility make him an attractive long-term projection. His ability to operate in space, execute movement blocks, and climb to the second level provides immediate appeal for college programs that emphasize athletic offensive linemen. As he continues to build strength, improve pass-protection consistency, and develop physically, Schmidt possesses the tools to become a productive collegiate interior offensive lineman. His combination of frame, mobility, intelligence, and effort gives him significant upside moving forward.
Projection: Developmental Group of Five Interior Offensive Lineman with the athletic upside to exceed that level as his body and strength continue to develop.
Scout: Daniel Contreras Soto
Region: West Texas
Evaluation Date: May 21, 2026
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