Hurricanes’ Anez Cooper picked by New York Jets in NFL draft

Miami coach Mario Cristobal is known for his skillful recruiting of top prospects. But Cristobal is also adept at recognizing untouted talent.

Anez Cooper was the No. 1,156 prospect in the 2022 recruiting class, according to 247Sports’ composite rankings. Cristobal and his staff helped turn the Miami offensive lineman into an NFL player.

The Hurricanes veteran was picked by the New York Jets in the sixth round of the NFL draft on Saturday. Cooper is the 188th pick in the draft.

Cooper is the third UM offensive lineman drafted this year, following first-round pick Francis Mauigoa and third-round pick Markel Bell.

Cooper, an Alabama native, arrived at UM in 2022, Cristobal’s first season. After injuries took their toll on Miami’s offensive line, the staff inserted Cooper into the starting lineup at right guard. He never went back to the bench.

Cooper started 46 games over four seasons with the Hurricanes, becoming a key part of the line and one of the team’s leaders.

“The invisible things are the things that are going to close that margin, that are going to help us get over that hump. And he’s doing those things right now,” offensive line coach Alex Mirabal said in spring 2025. “By him doing it, he’s setting the example for all the other guys.”

Cooper was solid in each of his three full seasons as Miami’s starting right guard. In 2025, Cooper helped anchor the line as the Hurricanes advanced to the national title game. Pro Football Focus gave Cooper a 68.7 offensive grade, which was the highest mark of his career. PFF gave him a 68.7 run-blocking grade and a 78.9 pass-blocking grade. Cooper allowed one sack last season, which was tied for his career low.