Jets Rookie Omar Cooper Jr. Returns from IR, Posts 103-Yard Game in Loss to Patriots

In Week 6, the New York Jets faced the New England Patriots and lost 26-19, while rookie wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. returned to the active roster after missing the previous four weeks.

Cooper had been placed on injured reserve after sustaining a high ankle sprain in Week 1 while recording a 30-yard reception for his first NFL catch.

On Sunday, he logged a full practice during his 21‑day practice window and was officially activated, catching six of seven targets for a career‑high 103 receiving yards, the most of any player in the game.

The 48‑yard pass from quarterback Geno Smith resulted in Cooper’s first NFL touchdown and the Jets’ first score of the day.

After the game, Cooper, 22, said, “It was a great feeling… it felt good to finally be back out there.” Smith praised the effort, stating, “He fought just to get back out there, and what he did was showcase who he is: He’s a playmaker.”

Cooper was selected 30th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft.