Cooper Russell

By Lee Brecheen

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School: Ouachita Christian High School, Class of 2025

Position: LB

Height: 6'5

Weight: 205

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This past summer, I traveled to Monroe to film some TV shows. While there, I spoke with Head Coach Steven Fitzhugh from Ouachita Christian High School. He brought along a young man for an interview with the magazine: Cooper Russell.

Coach Fitzhugh described Cooper as a player to watch—a sleeper prospect at 6’5” and 205 pounds, with impressive speed. Though capable of playing quarterback, he serves as a linebacker for the team. I was highly impressed with this young man. You can watch the interview on YouTube under The Sports Scouting Report with Lee Brecheen.

Cooper is mature and tough as nails. I had the opportunity to see him play recently in the state championship game against Vermilion Catholic High School. I was amazed by his athleticism, especially his ability to run for a player his size. He’s projected to reach the 6’5”, 220-pound range soon, and if he continues playing football in college, he could easily bulk up to 240 pounds. With his frame and skillset, he might develop into a defensive end or outside linebacker at the next level.

In addition to football, Cooper is an outstanding baseball player, excelling as a pitcher and first baseman. I believe he would be an excellent recruit for ULM in Monroe for either sport. His potential is immense, and as he continues to grow stronger and fill out, he will attract even more interest.

“I’ve known Cooper since he was in elementary school. He has always been a hard worker and very coachable. Last year, about halfway through the season, we moved him to linebacker, and he has thrived in the role. He made All-State in 2024 and was invited to play in the East/West All-Star game in Louisiana. I’m very proud of Cooper and how he has represented his family and our school,” said Linebackers Coach Randall Bentley of Ouachita Christian High School Football.

“I love playing at Ouachita Christian High School. It was more than just a team—it was family. I’ve been playing there since flag football when I was six years old. I’m going to miss them a lot,” said Cooper Russell.

“I’m playing baseball again, and we should have a strong year as a team. We’re replacing a bunch of starters from last year, but we faced the same situation in football and still had a great 2024 season, making it to the state title game.”

“I’m still unsigned for both football and baseball, but I’m being recruited by Centenary, the University of Arkansas at Monticello, Louisiana Christian, and Belhaven. Things are going well, and I hope to gain more interest now that the season is over,” Cooper Russell added.

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