2024 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Niko Cooper, Edge, Western Kentucky University

• Name: Niko Cooper
• Position: Edge
• College: Western Kentucky University
• Height: 6’5”
• Weight: 242 lbs
• Instagram: @32specialjefe_

What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?

I always used to watch the game and play the game of football outside around the neighborhood growing up. Also, used to seeing one year or day could change my situation forever.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

My moments are just being able and healthy to play in front of the fans, alumnus, kids, and with my brothers as we play for each other flying around to achieve one thing winning. Another moment is just soaking in knowledge that would help my game grow and play fast and physical.

What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?

I’m looking forward to an opportunity at the next level doesn’t matter if it’s all 3 phases of special teams with any team giving it my all to continue writing my story.

If you could hang but with any football player past or present for a day who and why?

I would hang out with Micah Parsons he’s a dawg and plays with a chip on his shoulder and a motor kind of similar to my game with a motor until the whistle blows. He switches up his game with finesse, power and speed at different positions on the field.

Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?

My mom with her past and older brother with his work ethic always inspired me to go hard whatever I do and pushes me when times get hard in my process. They told me to treat the way of life like football.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

My favorite scheme is a is 3-4 stack scheme that allows me to play the run and drop out into space and 5-2 that will allow one on one with the tackle with maybe a game.

What should we know about Niko Cooper the person?

I love to play video games and watch movies.

What stands out about your film the most?

My motor and physicality.

How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?

I handle always challenges in life with praying to the man.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A team will get 110% out of me. That’s the goal to playing at the next level.

What do you love the most about the game of football?

Your bond with each other last forever on and off the field with people.

Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?

Deangelo Malone and Brodric Martin are the most unique underrated players I played with the way they are coachable and disciplined with a motor. I learned a lot of knowledge from them to help prepare for my opportunity like take advantage of the opportunity.