Missouri coach Eli Drinkwitz announced on Tuesday that wide receiver Mookie Cooper underwent season-ending surgery for an unspecified injury. Sadly, this surgery will also mark the conclusion of his career at Columbia, as he is scheduled to graduate this year.
Drinkwitz shared this news at the outset of his press conference, becoming emotional as he spoke about Cooper’s significance to the Tigers.
“Mookie is obviously a very important player for us and for me personally,” he said. “He transferred here at a critical time and chose Mizzou when we really needed him. His final significant play of the season will be remembered as the moment that energized us to victory over Auburn.
“I have immense respect for Mookie—his dedication, work ethic, and selflessness for our team. We will definitely miss him, and I’m incredibly proud of him.”
Mookie Cooper is a local talent from Trinity Catholic High School in St. Louis who began his college career at Ohio State before transferring to Missouri in 2021. He was ranked as the No. 73 overall player and the No. 13 receiver in the 2020 recruiting cycle according to the On3 Industry Ranking, which factors in all four major recruiting services.
Over his four years with the Tigers, Cooper played in 40 games, recording 91 receptions for 1,171 yards and one touchdown.
Having missed the last four games, his latest announcement is not surprising. This season, he made 12 catches for 235 yards in the seven games he participated in.
This Saturday is Senior Day for the Tigers as they face Arkansas. Although Cooper won’t be playing, he will be honored alongside his fellow seniors.
The game is scheduled to kick off at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday in Columbia.
Leave a Reply