FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — The New York Jets received a strong showing from rookie wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. despite their 26-19 loss to the New England Patriots on Sunday. Cooper returned from a high-ankle sprain sustained in the season opener to deliver a standout performance, recording six receptions for 103 yards and scoring the team’s only touchdown.

Cooper’s injury in Week 1 had sidelined him for the past four weeks. During that initial game against the Tennessee Titans, he made a promising start with a 30-yard catch on the first drive before suffering the ankle sprain. He was subsequently placed on injured reserve, forcing him to miss several matches.

On Sunday, Cooper made a strong impact in his first game since returning, showing consistent involvement and running routes that kept him frequently open. His touchdown came in the third quarter on a 48-yard reception from quarterback Geno Smith, marking a key moment for the Jets’ offense in an otherwise challenging contest.

Smith praised Cooper’s resilience and skill after the game. “I think Omar did a tremendous job of coming back from injury, fought just to get back out there,” Smith said. “What he did is showcase who he is. He’s a playmaker. He’s a guy who finds ways to make catches, and the tough catches, he makes them look easy.”

Despite the loss, Cooper’s performance provided a positive note for the Jets as they continue to integrate their first-round draft picks into the lineup and contend with injuries that have affected their offensive consistency.