Cooper DeJean is an emerging star in the NFL, known for his exceptional skills as a cornerback for the Philadelphia Eagles. Drafted in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft from the University of Iowa, DeJean’s rise to fame in the professional football world has been impressive. From his standout college career to his remarkable rookie season and even a historic performance in Super Bowl LIX, Cooper DeJean has already made his mark in the NFL.
Who is Cooper DeJean?
Cooper DeJean is a professional American football player who currently plays as a cornerback for the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFL. Born on February 9, 2003, in Odebolt, Iowa, DeJean was a highly touted prospect during his time at the University of Iowa. Over his three years with the Hawkeyes, he developed into one of the most versatile and impactful defensive players in college football, earning numerous accolades and securing his spot in the 2024 NFL Draft.
His journey from Iowa to the NFL is one of determination and skill, as he quickly became a household name among college football fans. With his natural athleticism, high football IQ, and ability to shut down receivers, DeJean has proven he’s ready for the professional level. If you’re interested in learning more about other rising stars in college football, check out Tez Johnson, another player who is making waves at the collegiate level.
Cooper DeJean’s College Career
Cooper DeJean’s college career at the University of Iowa was nothing short of impressive. He played three seasons with the Iowa Hawkeyes, establishing himself as one of the top cornerbacks in the nation. During his time at Iowa, DeJean accumulated:
85 total tackles
7 interceptions, including 3 returned for touchdowns
13 passes defended
5 tackles for loss
DeJean’s ability to make plays in critical moments and his knack for reading the quarterback set him apart from his peers. His standout performances helped the Iowa defense become one of the most feared in college football during his tenure. His college stats were comparable to other top-tier prospects like Jahmyr Gibbs, who also impressed with his dynamic abilities and versatility.
In 2023, DeJean was honored with unanimous All-American honors, cementing his status as one of the top defensive players in college football. His rise to national prominence during his junior season was a major factor in his decision to declare for the NFL Draft, where his skillset caught the attention of scouts and coaches alike.
NFL Draft and Rookie Season
In the 2024 NFL Draft, Cooper DeJean was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles with the 40th overall pick in the second round. His draft stock soared following his exceptional college performances, and the Eagles saw an opportunity to add a dynamic playmaker to their defense.
DeJean’s transition to the NFL was seamless. In his rookie season, he played in all 16 games, starting 9 of them. His impact on the field was immediately felt as he showcased the same ball-hawking abilities that made him a standout at Iowa. DeJean’s rookie season stats include:
51 total tackles
6 passes defended
1 forced fumble
3 fumble recoveries
His performance earned him a solid overall grade of 82.7 from Pro Football Focus, ranking him 4th among all cornerbacks. DeJean’s ability to read the game, make big plays, and compete at a high level made him an integral part of the Eagles’ defense from day one.
For more on rising defensive talents, check out Landon Jackson, who also emerged as a major threat during his rookie season in the NFL.
Super Bowl LIX Performance
One of the most memorable moments of Cooper DeJean’s rookie season came in Super Bowl LIX. On his 22nd birthday, DeJean had a performance that will go down in NFL history. Early in the game, he intercepted a pass from Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and returned it for a touchdown, marking only the second time a rookie has scored a pick-six in Super Bowl history. This incredible play helped propel the Eagles to victory and solidified DeJean’s place among the NFL’s top young stars.
The pick-six became an iconic moment not just because of the significance of the play but also because of the timing—it occurred on the biggest stage of all, the Super Bowl. This achievement demonstrated DeJean’s poise under pressure and his ability to make game-changing plays when it matters most. For more exciting NFL moments and trade rumors, including those involving Deebo Samuel, head to Deebo Samuel Trade.
Final Thoughts
Cooper DeJean’s journey from college standout to Super Bowl hero underscores his exceptional talent and potential. His transition to the NFL has been nothing short of spectacular, and he has already proven to be one of the league’s top cornerbacks. As DeJean continues to develop and gain experience, there’s no doubt he will be a cornerstone of the Philadelphia Eagles’ defense for years to come.
His performances in both the regular season and the Super Bowl are just the beginning of what could be an outstanding NFL career. As the league continues to evolve, DeJean’s versatility, playmaking ability, and football IQ will make him a player to watch in the coming seasons. For those looking to stay updated on more defensive stars like Shemar Stewart, you can follow ongoing developments in the NFL.
FAQs
What position does Cooper DeJean play?
Cooper DeJean plays as a cornerback for the Philadelphia Eagles.
Where did Cooper DeJean play college football?
He played college football at the University of Iowa.
When was Cooper DeJean drafted into the NFL?
He was drafted in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles.
What notable achievement did DeJean accomplish in Super Bowl LIX?
He intercepted a pass from Patrick Mahomes and returned it for a touchdown, becoming only the second rookie to score a pick-six in Super Bowl history.
What are Cooper DeJean’s career statistics?
As of the end of the 2024 NFL season, DeJean recorded 51 total tackles, 6 passes defended, 1 forced fumble, and 3 fumble recoveries over 16 games. For more NFL updates, you can stay informed about NFL Free Agency Tracker and NFL Free Agency.
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