The Arizona Cardinals selected UNC offensive guard Jonathan Cooper with the No. 7 overall pick in the first round of the 2013 NFL draft. Cooper is rated as the No. 12 overall prospect and No. 2 offensive guard in this year's draft class by SB Nation's Dan Kadar.
2013 NFL Draft results: Jonathan Cooper selected by Cardinals with 7th pick
Cooper is regarded as one of the best offensive guard prospects to come out of college in several years.
Bob Donnan-US PRESSWIRE
Cooper is an excellent athlete given his 6'2, 311-pound frame. As a former star high school wrestler, he does an excellent job of using his hands to keep defenders at bay. SB Nation's Matthew Fairburn praised Cooper's smoothness and impeccable technique coming out of his stance, and said that Cooper may have been regarded as one of the best guard prospects in years if not for Chance Warmack's inclusion in this year's draft class.
Cooper could still use a bit of work as a pass protector, however. He may not yet have the bulk needed to take on bull-rushing defensive tackles when he takes a step back into a pass-protecting stance. With some time in an NFL strength program, however, Cooper has the potential to develop into a star at the next level.
Carson Palmer needs help in pass protection in Arizona. Cooper will greatly improve pass blocking for his new quarterback. He should be starting right away.
Combine results
Height: 6’2
Weight: 311 pounds
Hand size: 10-1/4 inches
Arm length: 33 inches
40-yard dash: 5.07 seconds
Vertical jump: 27 inches
Broad jump: 108 inches
20-yard shuttle: 4.84 seconds
Bench press: 35 reps of 225 pounds
Cooper started four seasons with the Tar Heels after redshirting out of high school. He went on to earn resounding acclaim from media, coaches and peers. After his 2012 senior season, Cooper earned first-team All-American honors from the Associated Press and AFCA coaches. He also earned the Jacobs Blocking Trophy as the best offensive lineman in the ACC.
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