Among the tackle leaders in the state of Georgia is Cooper Middleton. The explosive, high-motor defender out of Christian Heritage had 143 tackles on the year, which ranks him 5 in Georgia and 100 solo tackles, which is first.
No matter what, Middleton is always after the football, and in Week 12, he once again surprised the offense with his pure hustle, which earned him a spot in the top plays of the week. Middleton blitzed through a gap, ripped the football out of the QB’s hands, scooping up the football and returning it for the final 5 yards.
The impressive scoop-and-score was voted the #1 play of the week on the website, marking the 2nd time this season Middleton was voted the top play of the week – earlier this year, he blocked a punt and returned it for a score.
“We finished up 7-3, we had a good finish to our regular season, and we really progressed as a team. Our coaches have prepared us really well all season, and my teammates and I have progressed really well. Our coaches have helped us to have a really strong defense. In the last 4 games, we’ve only given up 31 points. I’m blessed to be a part of it,” he proclaimed.
Middleton’s been a consistent source for his team this season. The tackle totals speak for themselves, but with 17 tackles for a loss, 6 sacks, and 17 QB hurries, you can see why the 2027 defender’s impact is evident – he is a negative play machine.
Heading into the playoffs, Middleton quickly recapped what he is looking for.
“We have a 1st round bye, so we will make it to the sweet 16. Our coaches are going to prepare us really well for our game against Savannah Christian. I hope to make it as far as possible,” he said.
With any game being his last of his junior season now, Middleton talked about what his goals are for the offseason.
“My focus this offseason is to work on my numbers for testing, get faster, stronger, jump higher, and gain weight. I also hope to start a Bible study in the offseason for the team.”
On the recruiting front, Middleton has received interest from a slew of schools. He recapped it all, “This year I have been able to visit Cornell University, Georgia Tech, Berry College, and Anderson University. I am scheduled to attend Gardner-Webb University and Wofford as well.”
He noted that Cornell is showing a lot of interest, and Georgia Tech likes Middleton as a preferred walk-on at the moment. Considering his 4.36 GPA, you can definitely see why high academic programs have taken an interest.
Expect more recruiting news and highlights from Middleton in the future, so be sure to follow @RecruitGeorgia on Twitter/X to hear the latest on the JR defender and athletes across the state of Georgia.
TICKLE MONSTER MIDDLETON !!!!!