The Unpacking Future Packers Countdown is a countdown of 100 prospects who could be selected by the Green Bay Packers in the 2025 NFL draft.
Josh Myers is set to hit free agency this offseason and Zach Tom, Rasheed Walker, and Sean Rhyan are all entering contract years for the Green Bay Packers.
With all those potential moving parts along the offensive line, Brian Gutekunst will likely look to add an offensive lineman or two in the 2025 NFL Draft.
A potential target on Day 3 of the upcoming draft is Dalton Cooper. The Oklahoma State offensive lineman checks in at No. 78 in the Unpacking Future Packers Countdown.
A Texas State transfer, Cooper came to Oklahoma State with 36 career starts at left tackle to his name. During his first season as a Cowboy, Cooper started two games at right tackle and 11 at left tackle. This past season, Cooper started eight games at left tackle.
“It was a rough year across the board for the Oklahoma State offensive line, but Cooper was often the most consistent blocker,” Scott Wright, the Oklahoma State beat writer for The Oklahoman, said. “His pass protection was particularly strong, as was his leadership.”
According to Pro Football Focus, Cooper gave up zero sacks and six pressures this past season. The Oklahoma State offensive tackle is a wide-framed blocker. He operates with controlled steps. Everything from the top down stays in sync in his pass sets. The 57-game starter is schematically smart and has a high football IQ.
“Pass protection is easily his strength,” Wright said. “He went head-up with some really talented defensive ends this season and held his own at every opportunity. He has a long frame with good reach and good footwork. He really understands footwork. He isn’t insanely athletic, but he can move his feet to get in the right position. He uses his long arms well, in fact, he could probably still add some upper-body strength and get even better in that area.”
Cooper climbs to the second level with ease and hits his landmarks. He delivers a jolt at contact and can push defenders aside to open up running lanes.
“Run blocking is his least consistent area,” Wright said. “He’s not the type to bulldoze people, but he understands schemes and can get to the second level well. He’s intelligent and that will go a long way to making sure he’s in the right place. That will help him in the NFL as he gets accustomed to the physicality needed to run block at that level.”
Fit with the Packers
The Packers need to bolster the depth of the offensive line. If Tom or Walker were to suffer an injury they could have a major problem at offensive tackle.
With his experience playing both tackle spots, Cooper could provide the Packers with a swing tackle.
“It starts with his wealth of experience and production,” Wright said. “Between four years at Texas State and two at Oklahoma State, Cooper has played more than 3,800 total snaps, with over 2,300 as a pass blocker, yet he gave up just 10 sacks in his entire career. Then his versatility is valuable, having shown he can play both right and left tackle. He’s a high-IQ player, a hard worker and a good locker-room guy. He’s not going to cause trouble or become disheartened if he isn’t starting. He’s a low-risk pick considering the capabilities of his potential.”
The Packers have had a ton of success drafting offensive linemen on Day 3 of the draft and developing them into quality starters. Cooper could be the next in line.
With his wealth of experience, pass-blocking prowess and football IQ, Cooper could be a valuable addition to Green Bay’s offensive line.