In-State 2026 Tight End Cooper McCutchan on Cincinnati: 'A Really Great Opportunity To Stay Home'

Cincinnati seems to have made a great impression on this young talent.

TUNNEL HILL — In-state three-star tight end Cooper McCutchan from Cincinnati, Ohio recently went on a visit to see the Cincinnati Bearcats.

He is a tight-end prospect that is a 6-foot-4 220-pound frame. He is ninth-ranked 2026 recruit in the state according to Rivals.

“The importance of tight ends in the UC offense stands out the most to me,” the talented tight end stated to Bearcats Talk. “I want to be at a program where the TEs play a major role and I think UC offers that. Going to Cincinnati means I’m playing for my hometown, which would be a great opportunity. I look forward to seeing the progress with the new football facility and returning for a game at Nippert. I think there is a really great opportunity to stay home and be a part of building and sustaining a Big 12 program.”

Some of the coaches have been standing out to the young prospect.

“Coach (Josh ) Stepp and his QC Coach Fitch have been great," McCutchan said. "I really look forward to working with them at camp this summer. You won’t see more energy than Coach Stepp. I’m a big fan of the strength coach as well. I love his energy.”

Each visit will play a huge factor in recruitment as you always would like to leave a great impression.

“I think this was a very important visit in my recruitment," McCutchan said. "During these spring practices I’ve gotten an opportunity to sit in on team meetings, and position meetings along with being on the field and actually witnessing the coaches and how they interact with their players. Up until these spring visits, I hadn’t really gotten that opportunity, so it’s a big part of the recruitment.”

Cincinnati is "absolutely" one of his top schools.

“Absolutely. Since my first visit, UC has made it very clear about their intentions to recruit me," McCutchan said. "I can’t say enough good things about Coach Stepp and it’s obvious that the rest of the TE room feels the same.”

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